Juvenile Justice Reform: Social and Legal Implications and the Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Programs

Abstract

Juvenile justice systems worldwide are shifting from punitive approaches toward developmentally informed, rights-based, and evidence-driven models. This paper synthesizes legal frameworks, social science theory, and program evaluation evidence to assess how reform affects young people, communities, and public safety. Upon considering international norms and comparative domestic practice, we look at the social consequences of reform such as equity, stigma and long-term socioeconomic consequences and the legal consequences of due process, proportionality, and age at which the individual should be subject to criminal responsibility. We then assess the effectiveness of our most popular models of rehabilitation (e.g. diversion, restorative justice, cognitive-behavioural therapy, family-based treatments and re-entry supports) stating what works, to whom, and in what circumstances. The review demonstrates steady advantages of developmentally suitable, community-based interventions especially family-based therapies and skill-training programs, when administered with fidelity and combined with education, mental-health care, and planned aftercare. Custodial sanctions generally show neutral or iatrogenic effects on recidivism and life outcomes. The paper closes with a reform blueprint emphasizing legal alignment with international norms, targeted investment in proven programs, robust implementation infrastructure, and data transparency to ensure equitable, durable impact.