Juvenile Justice

• Select two case studies (from the three below) and write a 4–6 page paper (excluding cover page) that addresses the following bulleted items relative to each case study you select. Your paper should be written in narrative form and clearly address the following. What theory best explains why the juvenile profiled is engaging in delinquent behavior?
• Explain the theory in detail.
• Explain why this theory best explains the juvenile’s delinquent behavior.
• What sociological and psychological variables are there in the case study?
• Based on your selected theory, develop an intervention for the juvenile that is appropriate for the specific cultural circumstance.

As you address each bullet outlined and consider each case, you will also need to think critically about the uniqueness of the specific culture, how the people involved in the situation are communicating within the culture in which the situation is occurring, and take into account variables of the specific culture.

Please Note: This Assignment requires outside research. You may consult the Online Library, the internet, the textbook, other course material, and any other outside resources in supporting your task, using proper citations in APA style.

Case Studies

Case Study: Abby

Abby is a 13-year-old Caucasian female who was recently picked up by the police for running away. She lives in an upper middle class neighborhood with her mother and stepfather. She attends a great school, but her studies are lagging.

This is not the first time Abby has run away but it is the first time the police have found her. In the past her parents have found her and brought her home. When the police find her she is also under the influence of drugs and alcohol. She has been getting poor grades, has dropped out of all her extracurricular activities, and has become very withdrawn. When questioned by the police, she reports she ran away because her stepfather has been sexually abusing her for several years and she cannot take it anymore.

Case Study: Justin

Justin is a 16-year-old African-American boy. He lives in a poor neighborhood, comes from a broken home and the only bright spot in his life is school. He does very well when he attends. Attending is difficult for him as he has to take care of his siblings while his mom works a couple of jobs. He is starting to participate in gang activity to make money to help his mother financially. He was recently picked up by the police for stealing.

Case Study: Ryan

Ryan is a 14-year-old Hispanic teenager. He lives in a two parent home. They are middle class. His father engages in domestic violence against his mother frequently. He also has two brothers who also have issues with violence. He was recently arrested for assault at his school. He does not like school. The domestic violence is a secret in their home and has never been disclosed to his friends.