Stupid Kids . . . I know they stole our bikes but . . .

[shootingstar]

Understanding consequences doesn't also mean writing off people as unsalvageable. So rehab is desired, community service, etc.

Far from it. And it is possible for a parent...if they wish to provide support to the delinquent teenager for the good things about the person -- without condoning/approving a criminal act. And theft is wrong, it is not a "game". Just like bullying, etc. I choose the latter behaviour as something so real among teens, which seems so small, inconsequential to some bullies, that it can affect the victim's mental health...to the point of suicide. (Several highly publicized cases in Canada within the past few months.)

So small acts crime or abuse, if left unchecked, can snowball slowly into something bigger over time.

So what should be done for teens so that there won't be a repeat in break 'n enter, theft on a bigger scale or whatever else later?

I was intrigued when my manager hired a lawyer so that her 21 yrs. old son could be defended for a drunk driving charge. Her son..has a full time job and was going to college. So not a baby. He was living at home. This was last year..

Or maybe because I don't have children but after watching my partner deal with his kids...None of them did anything criminal but some major stumbles in judgement errors and living with the consequences. We all have our stories.