Why It Is Important To Treat Criminals

While many criminal acts are symptomatic of psychopathology, some may not be. There are "normal" people who commit crimes, but research has shown that most crimes are commited by a majority with some disorder and abnormal. When it comes to dealing with criminals, I think it's important to treat the case on an individual basis. In some cases, some criminals deserve punishment to deter them from repeating the offense such as murder or rape, others would do better with treatment such as chronic marijuana users. Also, I believe labeling of particular offenders "criminal" is not a good idea for the interest of society and for the interest of the offender such as a young man who is sent to prison for smoking marijuana.

I like how you pointed out that some people who are considered "normal" are able to commit criminal acts under certain situations such as finding their significant other in bed with another individual. I agree that prisoners are in need of treatment especially in a place like prison. I would consider the idea that many prison inmates develop psychological disorders while in that environment and as you mentioned, this feeds into a self fulfilling prophecy. I think society would gain more in the long run by treating more and focusing less on punishment. …show more content…
While some criminals would be better off with punishment, others might be better off with treatment. I also think that a third category of criminals need a combination of both for their own good and