FOR31400/FOR3140 - Juvenile Delinquency

(3 units)

This course explores the historical precedents and philosophical reasons of juvenile delinquency. Our justice systems treat juveniles differently from adults; thus, this course will also review empirical evidence about child development that can illuminate the reasons for their special status within the system, and our societal efforts to prevent delinquency. Students will learn about the distribution of juvenile delinquency according to both official statistics and self-report data and also explore the impact of significant social and institutional influences on delinquency: family, school, peers and drugs. The far-reaching implications of this course will provide students with the robust knowledge to better understand and manage delinquency in a more humane, efficient, and productive manner.