What is the definition of a status offender?

A status offender is specifically defined as a child who engages in behavior that is not considered a crime if committed by an adult. This can include actions such as truancy, running away from home, or violating curfew laws. The key aspect of being a status offender is that the behavior is only deemed an offense due to the individual's status as a minor, hence the term "status offender."

This distinction is critical in the juvenile justice system as it recognizes that children may engage in certain behaviors that reflect typical adolescent development rather than criminal intent, and these behaviors are generally addressed through intervention rather than punishment.

In contrast, the other descriptions pertain to different categories of juvenile offenses or circumstances, such as violent crimes or felony charges, which are not exclusive to minors and do not fit the definition of a status offense. The focus on behavior that is acceptable for adults but deemed inappropriate for minors underlines the unique perspective of juvenile law, aiming to guide rather than penalize young individuals.