Which term best matches the idea of trying to prevent future crimes by changing offender behavior?

• A. Retribution
• B. Restitution
• C. Rehabilitation
• D. Incapacitation

Answer: (C)

Rehabilitation is the approach that aims to prevent future crimes by changing offender behavior. It treats crime as something that can be reduced by addressing underlying causes—like addiction, lack of skills, or anti-social habits—through programs such as counseling, substance-abuse treatment, education, and job training. By helping the offender develop prosocial behaviors and stable supports, rehabilitation lowers the chance of reoffending and supports a successful return to society. This differs from retribution, which centers on punishing the offender for the wrongdoing; restitution, which requires compensation to victims; and incapacitation, which removes the offender’s ability to commit crimes without necessarily changing their behavior. Deterrence targets others’ behavior through the threat of punishment, not the offender’s own rehabilitation.