What is the primary focus of the Juvenile Justice System in Massachusetts?

The primary focus of the Juvenile Justice System in Massachusetts is rehabilitation of youth offenders. This approach recognizes that young individuals have a greater capacity for change and development than adults, so the system is designed to provide educational and therapeutic interventions rather than solely punitive measures.

In this context, rehabilitation aims to address the underlying issues that contributed to the youth's delinquent behavior, such as trauma, mental health challenges, and social circumstances. Programs within the system are tailored to promote positive development and reintegration into the community, focusing on restorative justice practices that help youth learn from their mistakes rather than solely face penalties.

This emphasis on rehabilitation stands in contrast to other approaches, such as strictly punitive measures or long-term incarceration, which may not effectively address the behaviors that led to criminal activity. Instead, Massachusetts seeks to involve families, communities, and support services to ensure that youth offenders can make meaningful changes in their lives and reduce recidivism rates.