191-415 Youth, Crime and Society

Usually 37.5 points of second/third year criminology subjects for third year, or admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth year honours in criminology or sociology.

This subject provides an examination of theories relating to juvenile offending, and an analysis of juvenile justice policies, practices and reforms. It explores the dynamics of youth offending, and the varying responses of different parts of the welfare and criminal justice systems to the behaviour of young people. The subject considers issues relating to social division (eg. class, gender, ethnicity and race) and how these are reflected in the operation and strategies of the juvenile justice system. Upon completion of the subject, students should have detailed knowledge of the institutions of juvenile justice, and the major issues associated with the phenomenon of young offending.

• have highly developed cognitive, analytical and problem-solving skills;

• have an advanced understanding of complex concepts and the ability to express them lucidly in writing and orally;

• have sophisticated awareness of cultural, ethnic and gender diversities and their implications;

• have an ability to plan work and to use time effectively.

An essay of 1500 words 30% (due during semester) and an essay of 2500 words 70% (due at the end of semester). Fourth year students will be required to complete an essay of 3500 words for their final assessment 70% (due at the end of semester).

A subject reader will be available from the University Bookshop