SOC 1500 Lecture Notes - Lecture 10: Defense Of Infancy, Juvenile Delinquency, Young Offenders Act

• School: University of Guelph
• Department: Sociology
• Course: SOC 1500
• Professor: Stephanie Howells

Document Summary

Policy reforms to one jurisdiction affect and are affected by other jurisdictions and institutions. Challenging to implement holistically (lack of coordination between and among jurisdictions) Reflections of attitudes and beliefs of society. Historical changes in policy reform reflect societal changes over time. Social policy often concerned with social control when youth are involved, control and welfare are blurred. Society responsible for well-being of citizens; must work together to prevent crime and delinquency. Alienated from economic and political sectors; experience lower-class life in school and community. Cannot correct youth offender until overall change occurs within society. Must change processes that lead to inequality, poverty, etc. , by promoting well-being of all citizens. Needs of youth and family must be attended to. Youth behaviour determined by social and psychological forces. Young offenders commit offences due to factors beyond their control; heavily based on medical model. Individual treatment plan for rehabilitation can be created. Discretion and power granted to experts who decide appropriate behaviour.