Some people believe that juvenile deliquents who commit serious crimes have to hold accountable for their actions in the same way as adults. While this may bring several benefits, I contend that these positive are overshadowed by many negative ones.
Having to bear legal responsibility as adults may yield some benefits to some extent. Hedonious crimes such as drug trafficking, murder are carried out deliberately and with macilious motives which hae posed a great threat to both family of victims and society. With the former having to endure the deep-seated pain while the latter is imposed a financial burden by constructing correctional schools and moral degradation among citizens . Therefore, receivinng serious sentences is appropriate for their criminal behaviour.
However, this may engender several negative consequences. Many young people who grow up in dysfunctional family , may lack parental guidance and be exposed to domestic violence. Gradually, they are increasingly internalize negative values and undermine moral standards, or even carrying out act just for self-defense . Psychological immaturity prevent them from distinguishing right from wrong, therefore, when they observe their friend engage in criminal activities, they are likely to do the same to not be fallen behind. Therefore, imposing harsh penality on young people as the same way as adults may become a catalyst for further criminal behaviour. As they are prisoned alongside hardened crimals, lacking discernment may expose them to social evils in that complext environement. This punishment may be counter-productive and exert negative effects in the later future. They can not integrated into society easily to become a decent citizen again. To improve financial security and livelihoods, they may turn to alternative and postive occupation. However, some companies may stigma with some who have criminal record which prevent young people to become law-abiding citizens and be led astray again because of social neglect. For example, many young deliquents can not take on an occupation , even engaging in labour mannuals, leaving them little chance to rehabilate and correct their behaviour.
In conclusion, in spite of postive impacts mentioned above, this may exert more negatives on both individuals and society.