MTV Juvies (MTV)

The MTV-produced documentary series JUVIES follows teens as they enter juvenile detention, appear before the judge, and either get released ... or stay behind bars. Filmed at the Lake County Juvenile Justice Complex in Indiana, the show offers a fascinating, thought-provoking glimpse into the lives of young people dealing with family troubles, drugs, and emotional problems. Inside the detention center, life is scary at first, but most of the profiled teens eventually find it bearable. For example, Cordell, 17, arrested for stealing a car, initially rejects his fellow inmates' friendly overtures, thinking they're all delinquents. But he ultimately realizes that his prejudice is unfounded when he hears others' stories and gains compassion for their situations. The teens' stories are often accompanied by dramatic reenactments of their alleged activities, complete with soundtracks (which feel out of place compared with the stark reality of the rest of the show).

The show's harsh details are bound to make a lasting impression. For example, during the intake process, Cordell must strip down in front of a staffer and rub Lysol on his hair to kill any potential bugs that might be living on his body. To someone like him -- a good student who's active in extracurriculars and hopes to be a lawyer someday -- the process is terribly humiliating.

While part of Juvies' appeal is its voyeuristic payoff, teen viewers will probably empathize with the inmates enough to think twice about doing anything that could make them wind up in the TV teens' place.

TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: MTV
Cast: Mary Beth Bonaventura
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: MTV