Full Answer Section

Community Supervision:

• Lower Risk (Potentially):Community supervision programs, when well-designed and implemented, can offer a lower risk of violence. This is because:
  • Structured Support:These programs can provide juveniles with support services, counseling, and life skills training to address the root causes of their delinquency, reducing the likelihood of future violence.
  • Family and Community:Community supervision allows juveniles to remain connected with family and positive social networks, which can be a protective factor against violence.

It’s important to note:

• The risk of violence in community supervision varies depending on the program’s quality and the specific circumstances of the juvenile.
• Some high-risk juveniles may need a secure setting like a specialized youth detention facility within the community supervision system.

Risk Factors for Adult Trial of Juveniles

Several factors increase the likelihood of a juvenile being tried and sentenced as an adult:

• Severity of the Offense:Juveniles who commit violent crimes like murder, rape, or aggravated assault are more likely to face adult trials due to the perceived seriousness of the offense.
• Maturational Level:Juveniles deemed to have a low level of maturity, lacking remorse or understanding of the consequences of their actions, might be considered for adult trial.
• Past Delinquency:A history of prior offenses, especially violent ones, suggests a pattern of criminal behavior that could benefit from harsher adult punishments.
• Public Safety Concerns:If the juvenile is deemed a high risk to re-offend and potentially endanger the community, an adult trial might be pursued for public safety reasons.

Role of Forensic Psychology Professionals

Forensic psychologists play a critical role in determining whether a juvenile should be tried as an adult. They conduct evaluations to assess:

• Cognitive Abilities:Can the juvenile understand the legal proceedings and potential consequences of their actions?
• Emotional Maturity:Does the juvenile show remorse or empathy for the victim?
• Mental Health:Are there any underlying mental health conditions that might have contributed to the offense or impact the juvenile’s ability to participate effectively in the legal process?
• Risk Assessment:Is the juvenile likely to re-offend if tried within the juvenile justice system? This assessment considers factors like criminal history, family environment, and mental health.

Forensic psychologists’ evaluations provide valuable data for judges to make informed decisions regarding whether to try a juvenile as an adult, considering both public safety and the potential for rehabilitation within the juvenile justice system.