What’s the harm in putting a child in a detention center? While it might be argued that juvenile detention is in the best interest of the child prior to trial, statistical data proves otherwise. The detrimental affects on youth and their families for even brief periods of containment in juvenile detention are detailed here.
Probation orders are also a common problem, and probation just happens to be the most common disposition given to juveniles adjudicated delinquent. The rules of probation are difficult to understand and follow for most juveniles, and if not tailored appropriately to the child, the rules can be easily violated and lead to long-term repercussions on them. In order for probation to yield the intended positive effects for youth, change is greatly needed. You can learn more here.
Both articles above were recently published by the National Juvenile Defender Center.