FACT-CHECK: Will Lowering The Age of Criminal Responsibility Reduce Juvenile Delinquincy?

The government of the Maldives recently announced its decision to reduce the age at which young people can be held responsible for criminal offences to 12 years, with amendments to the law currently underway. This significant policy shift was revealed during a joint press conference held by the police and ministries, following the circulation of a distressing video depicting a child being assaulted by peers inside a mosque.

Advocates argue that such a measure could deter juvenile delinquency and improve public safety. However, it’s essential to examine the evidence and academic research to determine whether this approach is effective.

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Claim: Lowering the age of criminal responsibility to 12 years of age will reduce juvenile delinquency rates.

Fact Check:

While lowering the age of criminal responsibility may seem like a proactive measure to address juvenile delinquency, it’s crucial to consider the potential consequences and effectiveness of such a policy change.

Adolescence is a critical period of development characterized by ongoing neurobiological, psychological, and social changes. Research indicates that adolescents may exhibit impulsivity, risk-taking behavior, and susceptibility to peer influence due to the ongoing maturation of the prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for decision-making and impulse control.

Lowering the age of criminal responsibility to 12 years of age raises concerns about holding juveniles accountable for their actions without fully considering their developmental stage and capacity for understanding the consequences of their behavior.

As such, research on the impact of lowering the age of criminal responsibility is limited and mixed. Some studies suggest that early intervention through the juvenile justice system can deter further delinquent behavior and promote rehabilitation.

On the other hand, studies have shown involvement in the criminal justice system at a young age can have detrimental effects on juvenile development, including increased likelihood of future criminal behavior, mental health issues, substance abuse and decreased educational and employment opportunities.

Instead, evidence-based interventions that focus on rehabilitation, education, mental health treatment, and family support have been shown to be more effective in promoting positive outcomes for juveniles and reducing their involvement in delinquent behavior.

The Verdict: False

While lowering the age of criminal responsibility to 12 years of age may be proposed with the intention of addressing juvenile delinquency, its effectiveness and potential consequences require careful consideration.

Academic research suggests that effective juvenile justice policies should prioritize rehabilitation and support services over punitive measures. Policymakers should evaluate the evidence and engage in comprehensive discussions with stakeholders to develop evidence-based approaches that promote positive outcomes for juvenile offenders and society as a whole.