In the context of juvenile law, what is meant by 'rehabilitate'?

In the context of juvenile law, 'rehabilitate' refers specifically to efforts aimed at correcting a juvenile's behavior through targeted interventions rather than punitive measures. This approach recognizes that juveniles are still developing and that their behavior can often be influenced positively through mentorship, education, counseling, and other supportive programs. The goal of rehabilitation is to address the underlying issues that may contribute to delinquent behavior—such as family dynamics, peer influence, or mental health concerns—thereby fostering a positive change and reintegration into society.

By focusing on rehabilitation, the juvenile justice system seeks to promote personal growth and development, which is essential for preventing future offenses and helping juveniles become productive members of the community. This contrasts with methods centered on punishment, which do not typically consider the individual circumstances of young offenders or their potential for positive change.