Nevertheless, research has assessed that nearly two-thirds of juvenile offenders are given an alternative option to incarceration through various rehabilitation programs (Community Corrections, 2014). Per Harland (1996), unfortunately, even with the most outstanding rehabilitation programs, deterrence is not always achieved; then again, if the rehabilitation programs adequately establish their goals to help the community, then the number of juvenile delinquents will decrease. Clearly, every program experiences flaws, but if properly implemented, the procedures will benefit society as a …show more content…
It had been determined that the adult criminal justice system was not a logical nor a rational institution for the developmental needs of youth since its main focus dealt with retribution and punishment. However, over the last couple of decades, juvenile codes have made changes that have affected the juvenile courts initial purpose. These changes have been widespread and have moved the court toward a more punitive and control-oriented institution. There has been a casual shift in the transferring of juveniles to the adult criminal court, enacting determinant and mandatory minimums, and blended sentencing provisions that have all made juvenile correctional placement more punitive. This has all altered the initial mission of juvenile justice; whereas the juvenile court was originally founded on the ideal of rehabilitation, code changes have shifted its mission toward the principle of accountability. This research covers some key points that should be taken into