Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Juvenile crime has been identified as a key problem in the Western world and a source of anxiety. This unit examines how far juvenile crime should be perceived as a special issue and seeks to explore the relationship of juvenile crime to factors such as employment, education and familial dysfunction. The unit also explores the competing philosophical approaches to juvenile justice including the 'welfare' model, the 'punishment' model and alternative approaches such as restorative justice and family group conferencing. It explores the way the media treats juvenile crime related issues (including the creation of 'moral panics'). The specific characteristics of youth crime are also analysed. Issues related to the problematic relationship between criminal justice and youths from ethnically diverse, Indigenous and marginal backgrounds is mapped out and discussed.

Credit
6 points
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) develop an understanding of the mythologies and realities of youth offending; (2) understand the specific nature of youth crime; (3) critique competing and complementary explanatory models, theories and perspectives; and (4) develop an understanding of specific youth-related justice strategies, e.g. diversion, family conferencing, alternative sentencing regimes.

Assessment

This comprises a take-home test and a 5000-word essay.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Contact hours
offered intensively
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.