ABSTRACT
Reaction theories tend to focus on the nature of decision making within various systems such as mental health, juvenile justice, and criminal justice. Attention is centered on how decisions are made and who is at risk in coming into these social-control systems. Many conflict theorists would argue that because of the nature of law and differential enforcement policies, minorities are more at risk of exposure to and being processed through the adult and juvenile justice systems. Reaction theories also play a role in the web of delinquency by focusing on the role of minority status and decision making. The problem of minority overrepresentation within the juvenile justice system and in secure facilities has drawn increased attention at both the state and the federal levels. Reducing the number of entrants to the juvenile justice system could include increasing the availability and quality of diversion programs aimed at keeping youth out of the system and providing alternatives to secure confinement.
