Specific Deterrence Specific deterrence is a method used in the criminal justice system to discourage convicted offenders, from reoffending, through the use of severe punishment. However, it can be argued that this is not an effective technique to deter criminals from repeating their offences. As demonstrated in D’Souza’s case, he was constantly involved in criminal activity throughout his adolescence, despite the severity of his punishment. Siegel & McCormick (2016) agree that the juvenile justice facilities have a minor effect on deterring youth from delinquent behaviour (p.146). It can be suggested that rather than reducing the crime rates, punishment increases recidivism (Siegel & McCormick, 2016, p. 146). Contenta et al (2008) state
