Protectionist theory frames the rights of the children preventing various types of minor abuse. The experiences children go through impact their further well-being. It is in the interest of every citizen to protect the rights and safety of children and teenagers. The protectionist theory provides minors with equal rights and prevents them from abuse, violence, and mistreatment.
An example of laws that fall under protectionist theory is the Civil Rights of Children and Child Abuse Prevention and Adoption Reform Act. The first law underlines the equality of the rights and privileges of every US citizen despite his age, race, and other features. Child Abuse Prevention and Adoption Reform Act provides children with protection if they were adopted. The law facilitates the replacement of the children in adoptive homes, the conditions, and children’s treatment specialties.
Personhood theory gives young individuals the right to have autonomy and freedom of choice. People have contradictory opinions regarding this theory; however, most developed countries provide youngsters the ability to choose and define some major decisions in life. For instance, teenagers can make select or refuse some type of treatment at the hospital.
They decide what manipulations could be made in the framework of their treatment by themselves. The laws providing them with this ability are the Mature Minor Doctrine and The Child Care Act. Protectionist and personhood theory can be called opposing as one of them fights for the maintenance and support of minors and another provides them with freedom of choice and autonomy.