What is the primary goal of the juvenile justice system?

The primary goal of the juvenile justice system is indeed to provide rehabilitation and prevent further delinquency. This focus on rehabilitation stems from the understanding that juveniles are still developing mentally and emotionally, and as such, the system aims to guide them towards making better choices in the future.

Rehabilitation programs may include counseling, educational opportunities, community service, and other interventions designed to support the juvenile's personal development and address the underlying issues that may have contributed to their behavior. By emphasizing rehabilitation rather than punishment, the juvenile justice system seeks to reduce recidivism and help young offenders become productive members of society. This approach aligns with the belief that young people have the capacity for change and that their mistakes can serve as opportunities for growth rather than solely as failures deserving of harsh penalties.

Options that emphasize punishment or confinement do not align with the fundamental principles of the juvenile justice system, which prioritize the long-term well-being of the youth involved. Ensuring awareness of the laws they have broken is also part of the educational process, but it is not the primary goal; rather, it is a means to facilitate rehabilitation and foster understanding.