Exam 37: Connections: The Social Control of Youth Across Institutional Spheres, Aaron Kupchik

Correct Answer:

Answered by Examlex AI Copilot

There are several reasons why racial/ethnic minority youth are overrepresented in juvenile court today. Two of the main reasons include systemic bias within the criminal justice system and socioeconomic disparities.

Firstly, systemic bias within the criminal justice system plays a significant role in the overrepresentation of racial/ethnic minority youth in juvenile court. Studies have shown that minority youth are more likely to be arrested, charged, and prosecuted compared to their white counterparts for similar offenses. This can be attributed to racial profiling, implicit bias, and discriminatory practices within law enforcement and the judicial system.

Secondly, socioeconomic disparities also contribute to the overrepresentation of racial/ethnic minority youth in juvenile court. Minority communities often face higher rates of poverty, limited access to quality education, and lack of resources and support systems. These factors can lead to higher rates of delinquency and involvement in criminal activities among minority youth, ultimately increasing their likelihood of coming into contact with the juvenile justice system.

Overall, the overrepresentation of racial/ethnic minority youth in juvenile court is a complex issue that is influenced by systemic bias and socioeconomic disparities. Addressing these underlying factors is crucial in working towards a more equitable and just juvenile justice system.

Correct Answer:

Answered by Examlex AI Copilot

The original juvenile court was biased against poor youth in two main ways. First, the court often operated under the assumption that poverty was a contributing factor to delinquent behavior, leading to a tendency to pathologize and criminalize poverty itself. This meant that poor youth were more likely to be seen as inherently delinquent and in need of intervention, rather than considering the systemic factors that contribute to their circumstances.

Second, the court's reliance on probation and rehabilitation as the primary forms of intervention often disproportionately affected poor youth. Instead of addressing the root causes of their behavior, these interventions focused on changing the individual's behavior without addressing the larger social and economic factors at play. This approach often led to poor youth being placed in institutions or under state supervision for longer periods of time, further entrenching their disadvantage.

These biases are still at work today in the juvenile justice system. Poor youth are still more likely to be criminalized for behaviors that are often a result of their economic circumstances, such as truancy or minor theft. Additionally, the focus on probation and rehabilitation as the primary forms of intervention can still disproportionately affect poor youth, as they may not have access to the same resources and support systems as their wealthier counterparts. This perpetuates the cycle of disadvantage and increases the likelihood of poor youth becoming involved in the criminal justice system. Overall, the biases of the original juvenile court continue to impact poor youth today, contributing to their overrepresentation in the juvenile justice system.