A sanctioning philosophy based on the assertion that criminals deserve to be punished for breaking society's rules.

The strategy of preventing crime through the threat of punishment

The theory that by punishing an individual, other individuals will be deterred from committing the same or similar offenses.

The theory that an individual who has been punished once for criminal wrongdoing is less likely to commit further crimes, as he or she will not want to repeat the experience of punishment.

A strategy for preventing crime by detaining wrongdoers in prison.

The philosophy that society is best served when wrongdoers are treated for the issues underlying their criminal

An approach to punishment designed to repair the harm done to the victim and the community by the offender's criminal act.

Monetary compensation for damages done to the victim by the offender's criminal activity.

An indeterminate term of incarceration in which a judge determines the minimum and maximum terms of imprisonment.

A period of incarceration that is fixed by a sentencing authority and cannot be reduced by judges or other corrections officials.

A reduction in time served by prisoners based on good behavior, conformity to rules, and other positive actions.

Legislative attempts to assure that convicts will serve approximately the terms to which they were initially sentenced.

Another term for the death penalty. Crimes that are punishable by death penalty are known as capital crimes or capital offenses.

An investigative report on an offender's background that assists a judge in determining the proper sentence.

The actual offense committed, as opposed to the charge levied by a prosecutor as the result of a plea bargain.

Any circumstances accompanying the commission of a crime that may justify a lighter sentence.

Any circumstances accompanying the commission of a crime that may justify a harsher sentence.

A situation in which those convicted of similar crimes do not receive similar sentences.

A situation in which the length of a sentence appears to be influenced by the defendant's race or another factor not directly related to the crime he or she committed.

Legislatively determined guidelines that judges are required to follow.

A stipulation that allows a judge to adjust his or her sentencing decision based on the special circumstances of a particular case.

Statutorily determined punishments that must be applied to those who are convicted of specific crimes.

Statutes that require lengthy prison sentences for those who are convicted of multiple felonies.

A statement to the sentencing body (judge, jury, or parole board) in which the victim is given the opportunity to describe how the crime has affected her or him.

The use of the death penalty to punish wrongdoers for certain crimes.

A Study of a Maximum Security Prison Gresham M. Sykes