The Schubert Center for Child Studies has released a public statement urging confidentiality in juvenile court proceedings, especially with young children, and greater care and responsibility in how children involved in the juvenile justice system are discussed and portrayed—particularly in media and online spaces. Our statement reflects long-standing principles of child well-being and draws on research underscoring that children are still developing, vulnerable to harm, and capable of meaningful growth and change.
In this statement, our center emphasizes the importance of protecting the dignity and privacy of all children—both victims and accused—and cautions against sensationalized coverage that can undermine fairness and cause lasting harm. Our center calls on leaders, organizations, and communities to uphold practices that prioritize children’s safety, development, and future opportunities.