Juvenile Justice and Sentencing Models

These flashcards cover key concepts related to juvenile justice, sentencing theories, legal cases, and assessments in forensic psychology, based on the lecture notes.

What is the primary focus of sentencing theory for juveniles?

The primary focus is a rehabilitative approach.

What legislation was enacted in 1950 concerning youthful offenders?

The Youth Corrections Act.

What did the Youth Corrections Act aim to address?

It aimed to address the disproportionate amount of crime committed by youthful offenders and the failure to rehabilitate them.

What significant change occurred in juvenile justice in the 1990s?

The advent of the concept of 'super predators' led to more punitive approaches to juvenile offenders.

What does the term 'super predators' refer to?

It refers to a now-debunked idea that asserted an impending wave of violent, untreatable juveniles, often racially biased in its implications.

In which case did the Supreme Court rule that executing individuals with intellectual disabilities violates the 8th amendment?

Atkins v. Virginia.

What are some factors that influence culpability assessments for offenders?

Situational factors, offender’s life history, cultural factors, and post-offense behavior.

What does capital sentencing typically involve?

A bifurcated process where guilt is determined first, followed by a separate consideration of sentencing.

What was ruled in Roper v. Simmons regarding juvenile offenders?

The execution of juveniles is unconstitutional.

What was George Stinney known for?

He was the youngest person executed in the United States, at 14, after a wrongful conviction.

Why is addiction not considered a mitigating factor in current sentencing guidelines?

Federal sentencing guidelines explicitly prohibit consideration of addiction as a mitigating factor.

What was the purpose of drug courts?

To divert drug-dependent individuals away from the criminal justice system and toward rehabilitation.

What is assessed during risk assessment in forensic psychology?

Long-term predictions of future violence and recidivism.

What role does mental health play in culpability assessments?

It provides insight into the offender’s psychological state and the circumstances surrounding their behavior.

What does the term 'actuarial' refer to in violence risk assessments?

It refers to statistical methods used to predict recidivism based on individuals' identifying characteristics.

What should a psychologist avoid when providing assessments in a legal context?

Avoid making moral judgments about the offender's behavior.

What is the significance of true positives in risk assessments?

True positives are instances where the assessment correctly predicts future violence.

How has the methodology of violence risk assessment evolved?

From purely clinical judgments to a blend of actuarial data and semi-structured assessments.