Semester 1 2025 - DUE March 2025; 100% correct solutions
and explanations.
Two Essays Provided For Each Question
1. Explain why status offences such as consuming alcohol,
running away from home, truancy, and smoking, affect the
nature of child and youth misbehaviour.
The Impact of Status Offences on Child and Youth
Misbehaviour
Introduction Child and youth misbehaviour is a growing
concern in many societies worldwide. Among the various forms
of juvenile delinquency, status offences—such as consuming
alcohol, running away from home, truancy, and smoking—are
particularly significant as they highlight underlying social,
familial, and developmental issues. These offences are
considered illegal only because of the age of the offender,
distinguishing them from other criminal behaviours. This essay
explores the impact of status offences on child and youth
misbehaviour, considering their causes, consequences, and the
broader implications for society.
Understanding Status Offences Status offences are non-
criminal behaviours that are deemed illegal due to the offender’s
status as a minor. According to Siegel and Welsh (2018), status
offences reflect societal concerns about the well-being and
development of children and adolescents. The rationale for
restricting certain behaviours for minors is grounded in the