What is the purpose of the juvenile court movement?

The juvenile court movement primarily aimed to create specialized courts for youth, recognizing that minors are developmentally different from adults and require a distinct approach in the legal system. This was driven by the understanding that rehabilitation should be prioritized over punishment for young offenders. By establishing juvenile courts, the system could provide a more supportive environment focused on addressing the root causes of juvenile delinquency, offering resources such as counseling and education rather than solely punitive measures.

Additionally, the juvenile court movement sought to ensure due process rights for minors, acknowledging their vulnerability and the risks of stigmatization and negative lifelong impacts stemming from a criminal record. This approach reflects a belief in the capacity of young individuals to change and grow when given appropriate guidance and support.

In contrast, options that suggest providing adult legal rights to minors or establishing separate courts for adult offenders do not align with the juvenile court movement's focus on youth-specific rehabilitation. Meanwhile, the idea of eliminating juvenile justice systems entirely contradicts the movement's fundamental goal of addressing juvenile offenses in a manner tailored to the needs and circumstances of young individuals.