SOCI 250 Juvenile Delinquency 3 hour credits – This course analyzes delinquent behavior of young people in our society using various studies of the topic. The course offers an intensive study of the nature and extent of juvenile delinquency. In addition it addresses the nature of youth crime and how to reduce the amount of juvenile delinquency. The course gives students a greater understanding of the present juvenile justice system including the biological, psychological and sociological approaches to reduce juvenile crime. It emphasizes the relationship between delinquent behavior and today’s social and political conditions.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon successful completion of this course, students are able to do the following:
- Engage in critical thinking by reading, writing and thinking critically about the concepts presented in the course. Students must be able to present both sides of issues, using information rather than emotion. Students must be able to demonstrate an understanding of the nature of juvenile delinquency, its causes, as well as the current strategies being used to control or eliminate it. Students are expected to have an understanding of recent legal cases, research studies and policy initiatives.
- Develop communication skills by organizing and presenting ideas in a logical order. Students are expected to actively listen, respond to and build on ideas generated during class discussion. Students are expected to write clearly and effectively, and develop persuasive communication skills based on fact. Students engage in dialog and debate.
- Demonstrate an understanding of ethical decision making by being exposed to the ethical dilemmas, which arise in a free society. Students are expected to recognize moral and/or ethical dilemmas and examine the possible situations. Students are expected to examine the ethical dilemma of law and consequences vs. law and treatment.
- Demonstrate an understanding of issues of diversity by examining the issues in a multicultural society as related specifically to the African-American community, the Latino-American community, the Asian-American community, Native American community, women, the elderly, the Gay community and new immigrants. Students must demonstrate an appreciation for cultural diversity and affirmative action.