Brain Science
This part of the brain controls planning and impulse control.
the prefrontal cortex
This case banned capital punishment for juveniles.
Roper v. Simmons
Catholic teaching says every person has this because they are made in God’s image.
human dignity
Supporters say young adults are less morally responsible because they are still doing this
developing
Critics believe serious crimes should still receive strong ____
punishment
Young adults are more likely to make these types of decisions because the brain is still developing.
risky or impulsive decisions
This case struck down mandatory life without parole for juvenile offenders.
Miller v. Alabama
Catholic ethics supports allowing people to do this after mistakes.
change/improve
Supporters believe these programs work better than lifelong punishment.
rehabilitation programs
Opponents worry that lighter punishment weakens this.
deterrence
Research suggests the brain continues developing until around this age
25
This state ruled in 2025 that parole restrictions for 19–20-year-olds were unconstitutional.
Michigan
This Catholic teaching focuses on helping vulnerable people.
preferential option for the vulnerable
Reduced sentencing could lower this in communities.
crime rates
Victims’ families may feel this was not served.
justice
The prefrontal cortex helps people understand these.
Consequences
These court decisions were influenced by this scientific field
neuroscience
Catholic ethics promotes these values toward offenders.
compassion and mercy
Supporters think justice should include this and second chances.
Mercy
Critics argue that age alone oversimplifies this.
human behaviour
Critics argue that this differs between individuals and should not be generalized.
Brain development
These cases changed legal views on punishment and this concept.
accountability
Catholic teaching also says society must protect this
justice or public safety
Supporters believe neuroscience should influence this system.
criminal justice
Opponents think sentencing should focus more on this than age.
severity of the crime