Juvenile vs. Adult Offender Treatment Approaches
Theorists such as Jean Piaget and Erik Erikson have documented the psychological skills and psychosocial needs of juveniles as being different from those of adults. Studies in developmental and child psychology reveal that there are significant differences between children and adults in terms of treatment processes and that children cannot, and should not, be treated as “mini-adults.” Juveniles of different age groups have differing supervision needs as well. Even children of the same age may have significantly different needs. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the needs of juvenile offenders in forensic treatment settings are unique from those of their adult counterparts.
Restrictions in treatment environments often impact the overall treatment process for juvenile offenders. Juvenile courts may mandate treatment, and parents may refuse to be part of the change process. In addition, drug abuse, sexuality, peer relationships, gangs, and violence all can complicate treatment efforts when treating juvenile offenders. Forensic treatment providers must be acutely aware of juvenile (minor’s) rights in their locales as well as the laws surrounding juvenile offender treatment.
To prepare for this Discussion:
• Review Chapter 3, “Assessment, Classification, and Treatment with Juvenile Delinquents,” in the course text Correctional Counseling and Treatment. Pay attention to the types of treatment and treatment specifications for treating juvenile offenders. Think about how juvenile treatment approaches differ from adult treatment approaches.
• Review Chapter 6, “Juvenile Offender Suicide: Prevalence, Risk Factors, Assessment, and Crisis Intervention Protocols,” in the course text Correctional Counseling and Treatment. Consider the risk factors common among juvenile offenders and think about how these factors are similar to and different from adult offender risk factors.
• Review Chapter 7, “Finding Evidence-Based Juvenile Offender Treatment Programs: A National Survey,” in the course text Correctional Counseling and Treatment. Think about how effective treatment approaches and programs for juveniles differ from those for treating adult offenders. Consider how the approaches and programs for these two forensic populations are similar.
• Think about the unique characteristics of juvenile offenders and reflect on considerations related to the treatment of juvenile offenders.
• Select at least two similarities and two differences between juvenile and adult offender treatment approaches and programs.
Discussion post
Post by Day 4 a comparison (similarities and differences) between juvenile and adult offender treatment approaches and programs. Explain at least two similarities and two differences related to treatment approaches and treatment programs. Explain at least one conclusion you drew or insight you gained as a result of your comparison.
Paper
Children often are defined by the relationships they have with others—they are sons, daughters, cousins, grandchildren, students, or wards. These relationships are dynamic, and as children age they establish their identity and individuality independent of others. At the same time, children typically rely on others for guidance and support. The goal of a child’s developmental process is to reach adulthood having the ability to act independently and responsibly in the context of established relationships such as the family. This is important to consider when selecting treatment approaches and providing treatment to juvenile offenders. In addition, it is important to consider the benefits and liabilities of involving the family or supportive adults in the treatment of juvenile offenders. Understanding how family can support or hinder the change process is an important consideration when treating juvenile offenders.
To prepare for this assignment:
- Review Chapter 3, “Assessment, Classification, and Treatment with Juvenile Delinquents,” in the course text Correctional Counseling and Treatment. Pay attention to the role and importance of family in the treatment of juvenile offenders.
- Review Chapter 7, “Finding Evidence-Based Juvenile Offender Treatment Programs: A National Survey,” in the course text Correctional Counseling and Treatment. Consider the efficacy of treatment approaches and programs for juveniles that include families in their treatment.
- Think about the role and importance of family in the treatment of juvenile offenders.
The assignment 2 pages (300 words per page): use subtitles, reference the book and also two more outside resources
- Explain the role and importance of family in the treatment of juvenile offenders. Be specific. Use examples from the Learning Resources to illustrate your points.
……………….Answer Preview…………………
Role and Importance of Family in the Treatment of Juvenile Offenders
Juvenile offenders are persons under the legal age who are involved in criminal or antisocial activities.Juvenile offenders may be charged and put in a detention centers or tried as grownups depending on the severity of their offenses (Burfeind&Bartusch, 2011). Previous research reveals that most juvenile offenders are unsatisfied in their homes and may in need of something. The relationship children have with their parents and relatives is directly related to how they deal with situations around them (…
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