When children’s anger turns into violence, families often seek the help of caseworkers, therapists and law enforcement. In this video, the mother of thirteen-year-old Joshua seeks help from the judicial system after she is assaulted by her son.
This documentary of a juvenile hearing is the first of its kind, and follows one boy’s journey through the juvenile justice system. In his hearing, Joshua admits that he punched, shoved, and injured his mother, resulting in her calling 911 for assistance. Joshua’s mother shares that she is upset about taking her son to court, but feels she has no other option given Joshua’s long record of emotional and behavioral problems.
The video’s coverage of Joshua’s journey includes his time at an alternative house, which acts as a bridge between juvenile detention and residential facilities. An interview with the director of the house sheds light on the mechanics of such facilities and the challenges of children like Joshua. Joshua is also interviewed throughout the video, which offers a telling look into the thoughts and emotions of a struggling child labeled as a delinquent.
This video provides a thorough representation of the juvenile justice system. It walks viewers through every step of the process and interviews key players throughout the video, offering insight into the thoughts and feelings of delinquent children as well as the mixed emotions of their frustrated parents. Presenting facts in a straightforward way, this video also illustrates the struggles families face when dealing with delinquent children, and the options states offer to help them receive treatment, respite, and ultimately reunification.
