Literature Review This section explores scholarly studies of programs similar to Arlington Teen Court. It reviews relevant literature and sheds light on the research question of whether teen courts achieve its intended goals and objectives. Studies are divided into the following three sections: 1). Success in reducing recidivism; 2). Benefits of Teen Court versus the Traditional Juvenile Justice System; and 3).To what extent does teen court positively impact teen defendants.
Success in Reducing Recidivism In past studies, researchers explore whether teen courts actually work to reduce teens from committing crime. Although research has produced mixed results, Teen courts are viewed as a promising alternative to juvenile courts (Butts, 2000). …show more content…
In Arlington Teen Court, defendants are assessed by the jury and sentenced to community service hours or a set number of jury terms for their offense. In addition, the judge may order additional sanctions such as: an apology letter, essays, theft intervention class, counseling, anger management, or a drug intervention class to complete. One of the many benefits teen court offers to offenders, is the opportunity to address illegal behavior early on. Typically, formal juvenile justice systems are unable to hold youth offenders accountable due to lack of time and resources, and the seriousness of other crimes committed (Godwin, 1998). Another advantage of teen court is its restorative justice approach. Victims who choose to be a part of the process are welcome and can play an active role in the process. They regain a sense of wholeness; to know that the offender is held accountable for their wrongdoing. Possible imposed sanctions for offenders is a letter of apology and restitution (Acker, Hendrix, Lorraine, & Andrea,
Success in Reducing Recidivism In past studies, researchers explore whether teen courts actually work to reduce teens from committing crime. Although research has produced mixed results, Teen courts are viewed as a promising alternative to juvenile courts (Butts, 2000). …show more content…
In Arlington Teen Court, defendants are assessed by the jury and sentenced to community service hours or a set number of jury terms for their offense. In addition, the judge may order additional sanctions such as: an apology letter, essays, theft intervention class, counseling, anger management, or a drug intervention class to complete. One of the many benefits teen court offers to offenders, is the opportunity to address illegal behavior early on. Typically, formal juvenile justice systems are unable to hold youth offenders accountable due to lack of time and resources, and the seriousness of other crimes committed (Godwin, 1998). Another advantage of teen court is its restorative justice approach. Victims who choose to be a part of the process are welcome and can play an active role in the process. They regain a sense of wholeness; to know that the offender is held accountable for their wrongdoing. Possible imposed sanctions for offenders is a letter of apology and restitution (Acker, Hendrix, Lorraine, & Andrea,