Status offense laws define a status offense as a noncriminal/non-delinquent offense. These laws specify offenses that are considered illegal for an underage individual even though they are not illegal if they are committed by an adult. This law was designed to protect the youth from acts that may eventually lead to criminal offenses. These laws define acts of incorrigibility, runaway behavior, curfew violations and truancy. However, in the United States, these laws also have a negative facet to them. In this paper, I will seek to highlight the pros and cons of Status Offense Laws with respect to age requirements for purchasing tobacco products and alcohol and running away.
Pros
Status laws are founded and based on an individual’s age. This will determine whether it is legal for an individual to purchase items that may be regarded as soft drugs, such as alcohol and tobacco products. Here, status laws protect the health and well-being of underage individuals. This is due to the effects that such substances would have on a developing teenager’s body.
Runaway behavior is quite rampant among the youth. This is mostly evident in teen age. Status laws protect the young from fleeing parental care and guidance in order to protect them from external harm and/or injury caused by faulty decision making. Such an action exposes an underage individual to physical and sexual abuse.
Cons
It is a continuing debate as to the extent of the rights of a teenager, and when an individual should be considered an adult, the internationally accepted age for an adult is 18 years. However, some of bodies have been lobbying for the age to be lowered to 16 years, as has been done in some states in the U.S. these laws are evidently seen to restrict the rights accorded to an individual under the age of 18, even if they are of sound mind.
In conclusion, the Status offense laws were created to protect the health and well-being of underage individuals. These laws help avoid regression towards more serious and even violent behavior that may lead to criminal activity.
Works Cited
Bartollas, C., & Schmalleger, F. (2011). Juvenile Delinquency. Prentice Hall.
