How does the Juvenile Justice System actually rehabilitate inmates?

Question

I want to know how juvenile prison actually works. what so different from adult jails? i want to know if they are put to work or study or just serve time. sources would be great.

Answer 1

The Juvenile Justice System is different for each state.

I only know about the Texas system, which is a tiered level system. The kid will only be sent to the Texas Youth Commission (TYC) as a last resort - repeat offenders, no other suitable placement, etc. In Texas, it is a very regimented system. Every single minute of their day is planned out. It usually consists of year-round mandatory school for a certain number of hours a day. The idea is that if you provide sufficient structure, along with a reward system, the juvenile will be more receptive to rehabilitation.

Answer 2

Make them work. No more anything other than a cell, basic food, and basic medical care. First, all terms should be labor terms. Six days of work a week, one day of "rest" you pick the day. The default is Sunday, those who pick another day, work on Sundays in the cafeteria and laundry. If you don't work one day because you don't "feel like it" it doesn't count against your time in. I don't care if they are digging a big hole one day and filling it back in the next. Six days of some type of physical labor. Next, everything is a reward. You want a Coke or Coffee? Better do what the guards say. Cigarrettee, same thing. Hamburger off the grill line...you get the idea. Otherwise it's chili-mac or equivalent everyday with water. How about TV time? again, a priveledge same with radio. Another aspect of good behavior would be "trade school" training. I understand we're all created equal but some kids don't have a chance the second they are born. If they behave in prison, why not train the kid to be a carpenter/plumber/roofer etc. Something they can use to actually get a job with a wage. Make some tax break to companies that hire the kids into apprenticeships. I think Leavenworth prison has the lowest "return" rate for prisoners. Meaning that once out, less of thier inmates are ever in jail again. So whatever they are doing there should be a National Standard.

Answer 3

My husband works at the YDC.He tells me the kids are really messed up.Most dont even look like kids and are bigger then he is.They are pretty ruff and will jump you given the chance.Pretty sad I would say.I think most have to want to be rehabilitated before the system will work for them.I dont think they work but they do go to classes.Also they get counseling.It is hard to judge them as we are all one bad decision away from being where they are.The difference between the youth and the adult is just the age.Once you turn 21 you are considered an adult and will be tried as an adult for any criminal activity.

Answer 4

Inmates are offered the chance to study or work under closed closed supervision. If they changed for good, they are given liberty.

Answer 5

Many argue that instead of rehabilitation the minors are introduced to more crimes than ever before... another words turning them into true criminals.