What is the primary sentencing objective that aims to discourage criminal behavior?

The primary sentencing objective that aims to discourage criminal behavior is deterrence. This concept focuses on preventing future crimes by creating a fear of punishment among potential offenders. It operates on the principle that individuals will weigh the consequences of their actions, and if they perceive the risk of being caught and punished as high, they are less likely to engage in criminal activity. Deterrence can be divided into two categories: general deterrence, which aims to discourage the public at large from committing crimes through the punishment of others, and specific deterrence, which targets the individual offender to discourage them from reoffending.

The other options represent different objectives of sentencing. For example, retribution focuses on punishment as a form of moral vengeance against offenders, while rehabilitation seeks to reform offenders and reintegrate them into society. Restoration emphasizes repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior, often involving the offender making amends to the victim or community. While each of these objectives plays a role in the criminal justice system, deterrence specifically addresses the need to prevent future crime through the threat of punishment.