Which description matches general deterrence?

Which description matches general deterrence?

• A. Aimed toward the violator
• B. Aimed toward the public
• C. Aimed at reducing sentence
• D. Aimed at community service

Answer: (B)

General deterrence aims to discourage crime by sending a message to the public at large that illegal behavior will lead to punishment. The description that fits is punishment or sanctions designed to deter others from committing offenses, not just the person who is punished. By making an example of one offender, potential offenders weigh the risk of arrest and punishment before acting. This is different from specific deterrence, which focuses on discouraging the individual offender from reoffending. The other options describe punishment targeted at the violator or outcomes like shorter sentences or performing community service, which are not about deterring the public.

General deterrence aims to discourage crime by sending a message to the public at large that illegal behavior will lead to punishment. The description that fits is punishment or sanctions designed to deter others from committing offenses, not just the person who is punished. By making an example of one offender, potential offenders weigh the risk of arrest and punishment before acting. This is different from specific deterrence, which focuses on discouraging the individual offender from reoffending. The other options describe punishment targeted at the violator or outcomes like shorter sentences or performing community service, which are not about deterring the public.