NCJ Number
177526
Editor(s)
L. K. Egendorf,
J. A. Hurley
Date Published
1999
Length
190 pages
Annotation
These 30 excerpts from journals, books, newspapers, and other sources present contrasting opinions regarding the factors that put adolescents at risk, how society can deal with juvenile delinquency and violence, the prevention of adolescent pregnancy, and the role of the media and government in juvenile drug use.
Abstract
The volume aims to challenge readers to question their own opinions and assumptions and to enhance their critical reading and thinking skills. Individual papers argue for and against the assertions that varied factors put teenagers at risk, that media violence puts teenagers at risk, that the absence of fathers puts teenagers at risk, that inconsistent messages about morality put teenagers at risk and that homosexual teenagers are at risk. Additional articles present contrasting opinions regarding whether violent juvenile offenders should be handled as adults, whether gang-loitering ordinances can present adolescent violence, whether juvenile shock incarceration programs can reduce juvenile delinquency, and whether peace education or community-based efforts can reduce adolescent violence. Further papers argue for and against the teaching of abstinence, the use of long-term contraceptive devices, the enforcement of statutory rape laws and the elimination of welfare as ways of reducing adolescent pregnancy. Other papers focus on the impact of the media on juvenile drug use, the effectiveness of government antidrug efforts, and government efforts to reduce tobacco smoking among adolescents. Figures, tables, illustrations, discussion questions, index, annotated list of resource organizations, section reference lists, and 40 references