"...we have found that the ultimate goal of Teen Court lies not in changing behavior, but in changing perspective. Behavior is the outward expression of one’s perspective, thus we would reason that the key factor in preventing delinquent behavior is in altering that perspective. For example, those charged with battery must empathize with the victim’s pain, regardless of whether or not they believe their action was warranted. Those who “joke” about school shootings need to recognize that even false threats instill panic, and worse, can conceal the real threats. Those who provide law enforcement with false information must recognize the difficulties and disrespect they have deposited upon the officers. Thieves must understand how the repercussions of their actions have impacted not only their victim, but society and the economy as a whole. Offenders seldom recognize that prices must increase to counteract the losses brought about by their thefts. Those who trespass and burglarize private property need to put themselves in the resident’s place and imagine the alarm that they must have caused.
In regard to our defendant, it is essential that he shift his perspective away from politics and towards principle. Rather than concentrating solely on himself, he must focus on society as a whole. He must learn to respect the rule of law. Safe societies are comprised of people who respect the law for its own sake, not criminals who are adept at concealing their activity.
Often, the Teen Court program is viewed as a means of punishment, rather than an opportunity to rehabilitate. Under this mentality, a change in perspective is never sought. Teen Court should not simply instruct one on how to act, but how to think. Teaching someone to change their perspective on one issue causes a ripple effect that alters the person’s attitude toward all criminal behavior. The decision of whether or not to act criminally is no longer determined by a self-centered disregard for society and the law but, instead, by an understanding of the impacts that the action would have on others. Teen Court can and will be able to turn delinquents into upstanding members of society as long as the program takes steps to focus on this principle. Personal conviction is a stronger deterrent than fear of retribution."
