There are many reasons why children and adolescents engage in delinquent behavior. Merton's strain theory attempts to understand and examine these contexts. He suggested that individuals who experience some type of strain/stressor experience negative emotions that cause them to participate in delinquency. After the child or adolescent commits the crime, he or she is usually required to attend a diversion program. Many diversion programs have sought to prevent future delinquency by guiding, teaching, and rehabilitating youth who commit crimes. However, some crimes committed by children and adolescents have different approaches. Depending on the severity of the crime, the teen will be charged as an adult. This approach does not address the current tension or situation the person is experiencing. Therefore, juvenile courts and diversion programs are extremely important when dealing with juveniles