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System Change Through State Challenge Activities: Approaches and Products

As the juvenile court enters its second centennial, demands for an overhaul of the juvenile justice system continue to be commonplace at the national, State, and local levels. Viewing the juvenile justice system as “too lenient” and believing that “punishment” is the most effective way to protect the public and send a warning to juveniles, some policymakers argue for abolishing the juvenile court or using it only for very young offenders or those who commit minor offenses. Such lack of confidence in the rehabilitative effectiveness of the juvenile justice system has prompted many State legislatures to expose more juveniles to adult (criminal) court jurisdiction. Others, including advocates and juvenile justice practitioners, question how much justice young people have actually experienced in a system that too often fails to provide sufficient due process and adequate services. They call for expanding juvenile justice system protections and services.