Juveniles should not be tried as adults because their brains are still developing, making them less capable of fully understanding and controlling their actions. The juvenile justice system is designed for rehabilitation, but trying juveniles as adults shifts the focus to punishment, which can cause long-term harm, including psychological trauma, increased recidivism, and reduced opportunities for education and employment. Additionally, the adult system exposes juveniles to violence and victimization and shows racial biases that disproportionately affect minority youth.
Brain Development Differences
Juveniles have immature brains, particularly in areas controlling impulse and decision-making, which continue developing until around age 25. This immaturity results in a higher likelihood of risky, emotion-driven behavior that should be addressed differently than adult crimes.
Rehabilitation Focus
The juvenile justice system emphasizes rehabilitation, offering developmental and mental health programs. The adult system is primarily punitive and lacks such support, causing juveniles to miss essential interventions for growth and recovery.
Negative Consequences of Adult Trials
Juveniles tried as adults face greater risks of psychological harm from exposure to violence in adult facilities. They also have higher rates of reoffending, and adult criminal records can severely limit future education and job opportunities.
Racial and Social Inequities
Minority youth are disproportionately tried as adults and face harsher treatment in the adult system, perpetuating systemic racial biases and unequal justice outcomes.
Family and Economic Impact
Adult trials can cause emotional upheaval in families and bring financial burdens, complicating the juvenile's future prospects.
Overall, juveniles are fundamentally different from adults in brain development, maturity, and needs, making it unjust and harmful to try them as adults under the law.
