Discuss delinquency and parens patriae. What is meant by the philosophical viewpoint "best interests of the child"? Do you believe this concept is applicable today? Why or why not?
What will be an ideal response?
• The designation delinquent became popular at the onset of the twentieth century when the first separate juvenile courts were instituted.
• The child savers believed that treating minors and adults equivalently violated the humanitarian ideals of American society. Consequently, the newly emerging juvenile justice system operated under the parens patriae philosophy.
• Minors who engaged in illegal behavior were viewed as victims of improper care, custody, and treatment at home.
• Dishonest behavior was a sign that the state should step in and take control of the youths before they committed more serious crimes.
• It makes no sense to find children guilty of specific crimes, such as burglary or petty larceny, because that stigmatizes them and labels them as thieves or burglars.
• Instead, the catchall term juvenile delinquency should be used, as it indicates that the child needs the care, custody, and treatment of the state.
• The state, through its juvenile authorities, should act in the best interests of the child. This means that children should not be punished for their misdeeds but instead should be given the care and custody necessary to remedy and control wayward behavior.
• Student views will vary.
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