Personal Reflections on Youth and Core Values in the Context of the U.S. Criminal Justice System

Share your personal opinions about the topics included in this assignment. Many countries think that the criminal justice system in the United States is the most barbaric system in the world. Consider this: More children are arrested in the United States than anywhere else on Earth. I’d like you to consider why this might be the case. Imagine how one’s growth and maturity are based on core values and internal characteristics.Use the word, Frankenstein. Defining CORE Values and Ethics: Your values are important beliefs and principles in how you live and work. They (should) determine your priorities and guide your decisions and actions toward others. Life is usually good When the things you do and how you behave match your values.Question 1: Describe THREE core values for teenagers growing up (feel free to choose them from the list or realize your own).Question 2: Offer your personal opinion: If the American criminal justice system must arrest so many kids for committing crimes against the community, would you characterize those kids in the United States as the most dangerous kids on Earth? Explain your position (either way). Share on Facebook Tweet Follow us Sample Answer     Personal Reflections on Youth and Core Values in the Context of the U.S. Criminal Justice System The criminal justice system in the United States has often been criticized for its treatment of youth, particularly in how it handles juvenile arrests. With more children being arrested in the U.S. than in any other country, it raises significant questions about the values upheld in society and the systemic issues that contribute to this phenomenon. The discussion around these topics is complex, and I believe it is essential to approach them with empathy and an understanding of the underlying factors at play. Question 1: Three Core Values for Teenagers 1. Empathy: Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. For teenagers, developing empathy can foster meaningful relationships and encourage them to consider the impact of their actions on others. In a world that often emphasizes individual success, cultivating empathy can help create a more compassionate society. 2. Integrity: Integrity refers to adhering to moral and ethical principles. For teenagers, demonstrating integrity involves being honest, responsible, and making choices that align with their values. This core value encourages accountability and builds trust in both personal relationships and the community at large. 3. Resilience: Resilience is the capacity to recover from difficulties and adapt to challenges. For teenagers navigating adolescence, developing resilience is crucial as they face various pressures, including academic expectations, peer influences, and family dynamics. Resilient individuals possess the ability to learn from mistakes and grow stronger in the face of adversity. Question 2: Personal Opinion on American Youth and Criminal Justice System In considering whether the many children arrested in the United States can be characterized as the most dangerous kids on Earth, I would argue against this characterization. Rather than viewing these children through a lens of danger or criminality, it is vital to understand the context of their actions and the systemic issues contributing to their arrests. The metaphor of Frankenstein comes to mind here: just as Victor Frankenstein created a being that ultimately became a monster due to neglect, misunderstanding, and societal rejection, many young people find themselves trapped in a cycle of crime due to environmental factors such as poverty, lack of educational opportunities, exposure to violence, and insufficient support systems. These external influences shape their behaviors and choices, often leading them down paths that result in arrest. Labeling these children as “the most dangerous” oversimplifies complex social issues and ignores the potential for rehabilitation, growth, and change. Many of these kids might engage in criminal activity as a response to their circumstances rather than an inherent trait of danger or malice. Instead of demonizing them, we should focus on understanding their experiences and providing resources that foster positive growth. In conclusion, while the high rates of juvenile arrests in America are alarming and indicative of broader systemic issues within society, it is essential to approach these young individuals with empathy rather than fear. By prioritizing core values like empathy, integrity, and resilience, we can work towards a more just and supportive system that helps young people thrive rather than vilify them.         This question has been answered. Get Answer