Band 6+: In some societies, the number of crimes committed by teenagers is growing. Some people think that regardless of age, teenagers who commit major crimes should receive adult punishment. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Many people argue that a large number of teenagers, engaging in criminal activities such as robbery or violent attacks, should receive the same punishment as adults. I partly disagree with this view because of the necessary strict penalty, young offenders should not always be treated exactly like adults.

On the one hand, imposing appropriate punishment as an adult may ensure legal equality for their victims, giving them faith in the law, and their life. In numerous serious cases, such as robbery and violent attacks, the damage done to the victims is the same in terms of the criminal’s age. Therefore,applying an equal penalty shows that the legal system values the pain which individuals suffer from young offenders, and treats the crime strictly. In addition, strict penalties can prevent young people from repeating their mistakes. When adolescents know that serious consequences are waiting for them, they are more likely to think carefully before engaging in illegal behaviour. This helps raise their sense of responsibility and encourages them to comprehend that age should not be used as an excuse for harming others.

On the other hand, treating criminal teenagers exactly like adults may be inappropriate and even counterproductive. Adolescents are still developing mentally and emotionally, so they are more likely to make impulsive decisions without careful thinking about their long-term impact. Therefore, adult prisons might be dangerous environments, which could worsen their behaviour rather than help them reform. Instead of imposing severe penalties, the justice system should offer guidance and support to help these young people rebuild their lives. By focusing on rehabilitation rather than strict punishment, society can give them a second chance and reduce long-term crime rates.

In conclusion, although serious young crimes sometimes require strict punishment, I believe that young offenders should not be treated the same as adults. A combination of rehabilitation and responsibility is more effective approach in the long run.