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1600s Colonial Period and English Puritan Influence
In the 1600s, American colonies were influenced by English Puritan ideals which emphasized strict discipline and moral behavior. Juvenile offenders were treated similarly to adults, with harsh punishments such as whipping, branding, and public execution. The Puritan influence led to a community-centered approach where the entire community was responsible for enforcing moral behavior and disciplining youth. -
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1700s Scholar and Medical Expert influence
Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau argued that children were fundamentally different from adults and should be treated with more leniency. The 18th century saw the rise of medical experts studying child development, leading to the idea that juvenile delinquency was a result of improper upbringing rather than inherent criminality. -
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1800s/Early 19th Century, Parens Patriae, Reformatory Era and Houses of Refuge d. Early 1900s, Juvenile Probation
The concept of "parens patriae" emerged, granting the state authority to intervene in the lives of children who were neglected or delinquent. The Reformatory Era saw the establishment of reformatories aimed at rehabilitating rather than punishing juvenile offenders. The Houses of Refuge The first House of Refuge was established in New York in 1825, providing shelter, education, and vocational training for delinquent and neglected children. -
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early 1900
The early 20th century introduced the concept of juvenile probation, where youth offenders could be supervised and rehabilitated within the community rather than being institutionalized. -
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Juvenile Courts Mid 1900s, In re Winship, Kent v. United States, In re Gault, McKeiver v. Pennsylvania
Established the standard of "beyond a reasonable doubt" for juvenile delinquency proceedings.
Required a formal waiver hearing before transferring juveniles to adult court.Granted juveniles the right to due process, including the right to legal counsel and the right to confront witnesses.
Determined that juveniles do not have a constitutional right to a jury trial
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Restorative Justice Era
Addressing the social, emotional, and psychological needs of juveniles, including mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and educational support. Legislative changes that focus on reducing youth incarceration rates and promoting alternatives to detention. Implementing programs and practices that are supported by research and have proven effective in reducing recidivism and improving outcomes for youth.