Articulate the basic concepts of specific deterrence The theory ofspecific deterrence holds that criminal sanctions should be so powerful that known criminals will never repeat their criminal acts....

Articulate the basic concepts of specific deterrence The theory ofspecific deterrence holds that criminal sanctions should be so powerful that known criminals will never repeat their criminal acts. Research on specific deterrence does not provide any clear-cut evidence that punishing criminals is an effective means ofslopping them from committing future crimes. Punishment may bring defiance rather than deterrence. People who are harshly treated may want to show that they cannot he broken hy the system. The stigma of harsh treatment labels people and helps lock offenders into a criminal career instead of convincing them to avoid one.