Youth Justice
You must submit a 2,000 word written essay in answer to one of the following questions:
Critically discuss the use of custodial sentences for children who are convicted of serious offences. To what extent could restorative justice provide a suitable alternative to custodial sentences?
With reference to the deviancy amplification spiral (Wilkins 1964), critically discuss the relationship between public attitudes to young people and the development of youth justice policy. Use recent examples from England and Wales to illustrate your argument.
With reference to research evidence, describe the typical characteristics of children involved in two of the following types of offences: sexual offences; homicides; ‘county lines’ drug offences. Critically discuss the current youth justice responses to the children and young people involved and highlight areas for improvement.
With reference to relevant statistics, summarise the extent of discrimination within the youth justice system relating to two of the following factors: gender; ethnicity; status as a looked after child. Critically discuss potential explanations for such discrimination.
Outline the background to and the principles of the ‘Child First’ positive youth justice approach. What are the benefits and disadvantages of this approach when compared with other models of youth justice?