Students are welcome to elaborate over the 500 word-limit. Students are graded on content, supporting their opinion or position, professionalism, and grammar. Students should then respond to another classmate’s response in order to facilitate a class discussion on the topic. The professor may respond to student’s postings as well in order to elaborate on an opinion or position discussed in the posting. Spacing issues are understandable, but please cite all material according to A.P.A. standards using both in-text citations and a reference.
John Smith grew-up in Cleveland, Ohio surrounded by poverty and drugs. Smith was raised by a single mother who worked two jobs in order to support John and his younger sister Lisa. John earned decent grades in school as a child, but eventually dropped out of high school at age 15. Johns mother attempted to intervene, but could not always watch over him due to working multiple jobs. John Smith was soon lured to the streets and started using and even dealing drugs at age 15. John Smith was arrested at age 15 and 16 for drug possession and at 17 for simple assault. After Smiths third arrest the juvenile justice judge stated to John Smith, This would be your last chance to turn your life around before becoming an adult. Think about it! The judge decided to place Smith on probation for one year. However, the conditions of the probation involved John Smith earning his General Education Diploma (G.E.D.), passing a drug test once a month, and not obtaining any additional criminal charges. John Smith would earn his General Education Diploma (G.E.D.) at age 18 and eventually be released from probation after meeting all the conditions. Smith was attended a mentoring program, which emphasized education while on probation. John Smith is now a 36 years old husband and father of two young girls. Smith is a college graduate with a degree in information technology. Smith moved to Woodbridge, Virginia after obtaining a job as a computer analyst for a large cooperation. John Smith has never committed another crime since age 17. Recently, John Smith even won a community service award for mentoring at-risk youth. Which developmental theory best explains John Smiths behavior and life circumstances? Why? Discuss why the early-onset of delinquent behavior is an important factor when studying criminal behavior. In your opinion, does society do a good job at identifying at-risk youth such as, John Smith? Why or why not? How can American society produce more successful stories such as, John Smiths? Please support your answer.
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