Throughout our society crimes are being committed on a daily basis. It is quite disturbing that more and more of these crimes are being committed by juveniles. Over the last two decades, the number of juveniles living in poverty has grown 42% and this caused an increase in crimes by juveniles. Many of these individuals do not have a positive vision for the future and they lack long term goals. Not only do those who are less fortunate engage in dangerous activities, they also acquire their goods illegally as a way out. The Los Angeles Times reported many juveniles were either neglected or abused growing up. In addition, a number of these juveniles were raised in a single family home. According to the star tribune, several teenagers believe they are going to die young and this is why they are so out of control. The University of Minnesota surveyed 20,000 teenagers ranging from seventh to twelfth grade. The survey revealed that nearly 15% said they had a 50-50 chance or less of making their thirty-fifth birthday. Researchers also found out that juveniles who have a negative outlook on life are more likely to put themselves and others in danger by using drugs, consuming large amounts of alcohol having unprotected sex and attempting suicide. Nearly 3 in 10 American Indians, and 1 in 4 blacks, expected to die young, compared to 1 in 10 whites. The media and increased availability of guns play a huge part in the number of crimes committed by juveniles. In Los Angeles, cases involving juveniles with weapons have increased more then 80%. More family life and less exposure to violence can decrease juveniles committing violent crimes.
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