Guiding Principles of the YCJA
- Crime Prevention
- Rehabilitation
- Meaningful Consequences
- Reintegration
CRIME PREVENTION: Youth crime can be better prevented when the factors that contribute to it are addressed. Research
shows that factors such as poverty, family violence, substance abuse and high unemployment can all have a part in whether
youth engage in crime or not.
REHABILITATION:Youth in conflict with the law need help and support to promote good behavior. Guidance and support can
help youth become responsible citizens. Access to treatment and long-term support can help achieve this goal.
MEANINGFUL CONSEQUENCE: Community-based sentences and out-of-court responses are used for less serious offences to
include communities and victims of youth crime in the process. This can help reduce rates of youth in custody and help nonviolent
youth repair harm that they have done.
REINTEGRATION: To prevent re-offending, youth need help in returning to their communities. A commitment to maintaining
existing services and developing new programs can support youth in being productive in their communities. Examples of such
services or programs can be those that assist in learning life skills, finding employment, or participating in recreational activities.