I believe that the developmental and neuroscience explanations of juvenile delinquency and behavior have a strong basis. Neurobiological evidence is becoming increasingly commonplace in the courts, demonstrating the effectiveness and popularity of the approach (Aono et al., 2019). Criminal law and the courts consider not only the physical actions of the offender but also the intention behind the violation. However, modern neuroscience questions the concept that a person can choose the type of behavior (Aono et al., 2019). Experts agree that contemporary neurobiological methods can explain adolescent behavior patterns (Larsen & Luna, 2018). Ultimately, I agree with the existing research and believe that neuroscience provides valuable insights into the problem of juvenile delinquency.
I believe that sixteen is an appropriate age to hold young people accountable. However, I think that it is plausible to lower this threshold in case of violent crimes, including murder, rape, kidnapping, or assault. I am certain that most people are aware of the dangerous nature of such actions by the age of fourteen. Lastly, I believe that it is logical to increase the degree of punishment if the crime is committed by an organized gang.
In my opinion, releasing adolescents from detention through waivers is not the most effective method to combat crime and might even increase criminality among young people. I believe that most juveniles may start committing more offenses if the government amnesties them. However, at the same time, American prisons are notorious for poor sanitary conditions and harsh surveillance, including violence (The Economist, 2022). It might be challenging for young adults to integrate into society after such experiences. Ultimately, I am not confident of waivers’ effectiveness, but I am inclined to believe that there are more productive methods to reduce crime.
References
Aono, D., Yaffe, G., & Kober, H. (2019). Neuroscientific evidence in the courtroom: A review. Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications, 4(1),1-20.
Larsen, B., & Luna, B. (2018). Adolescence as a neurobiological critical period for the development of higher-order cognition. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, 94, 179–195.
The Economist. (2022). America’s prison system is becoming more inhumane.