What are preventive services in the context of juvenile law?

Preventive services in the context of juvenile law are designed to reduce the risk of delinquency before it occurs. This approach focuses on addressing factors that may lead to antisocial behavior among youth, such as family issues, peer pressure, or community influences. Preventive services can include educational programs, mentorship initiatives, family counseling, and community engagement activities aimed at promoting positive youth development and strengthening protective factors.

By investing in preventive measures, the goal is to intervene early and provide support to at-risk youth, potentially steering them away from future involvement in criminal activities. This proactive strategy emphasizes building resilience and equipping young people with the skills and resources they need to navigate challenges effectively, thereby reducing the likelihood of delinquency.

The other choices illustrate concepts that do not align with the purpose of preventive services, which contributes to the distinction of the correct answer.