ONE OF THE most emotional issues associated with the death penalty is whether or not juveniles should be subject to it. The crucial question revolves around whether someone under the age of eighteen can fully understand the consequences of his or her actions. If not, should that young person be punished to the same degree as an adult"

Many people feel that most individuals under the age of eighteen are not yet fully mature. Their personality and value system are still being developed. There is a good chance, therefore, that they can still be rehabilitated.

Others disagree, saying that juveniles should be held as accountable for their actions as are adults. An offender is an offender no matter what the age. Those juveniles who commit the most atrocious crimes should be subject to the death penalty as much as any adult.

A...