What role do juvenile detention centers serve?

Juvenile detention centers primarily serve the purpose of temporarily holding juveniles who are awaiting court hearings or adjudication. These facilities are designed not as long-term rehabilitation centers or permanent homes but as immediate environments where juveniles can be secured while their legal processes are ongoing. This is particularly important for ensuring that youth do not pose a further risk to themselves or others while their cases are being processed.

The focus in these centers is on the safety and appropriate supervision of the juveniles during this critical phase, rather than on punishment. While rehabilitation efforts may occur within the detention center, the primary role at this stage is custody for procedural reasons, rather than long-term treatment or rehabilitation. This aspect of juvenile law emphasizes the distinction between juvenile and adult justice systems, where juveniles are often prioritized for rehabilitation and treatment in the context of their developing status and potential for change.