What is the primary focus of the 'minors requiring authoritative intervention' criteria?

The primary focus of the 'minors requiring authoritative intervention' criteria is to ensure the safety and welfare of at-risk youths. This approach recognizes that certain minors may find themselves in situations where their wellbeing is compromised due to various factors such as neglect, abuse, or exposure to harmful environments. The criteria aim to identify and intervene in these cases to protect vulnerable youths, helping them access the necessary resources and support systems.

In this context, while preventing drug use, providing counseling services, and increasing parental involvement are important aspects of juvenile justice and child welfare, they are not the central focus of this specific criteria. Protecting children from harm is the overarching goal, which informs the decisions made by juvenile officers and social services when assessing the needs of at-risk minors. This protective stance is essential in all interventions as it prioritizes the immediate and long-term safety of the youth involved.