punishment refers to chapter 3 of the textbook on adolescent development. There is great disagreement about how we should treat adolescents who commit very serious crimes. Before being tried in adult court, it should be determined that the adolescent is competent enough to stand trial. Before the teenager's case is heard in court, an assessment should be conducted. (This also applies to individuals with mental illnesses and individuals with mental retardation.) If they do not understand the charges against them, then it is a questionable act if tried in adult court (Steinberg,