Public Perception of the Criminal Justice System: Rehabilitative versus Punitive

Abstract

"Research shows that it costs over $31,000 a year to incarcerate an individual. Furthermore, 50% of individuals who re-enter society will recidivate within 3 years. A variety of programs have proven effective in promoting successful reintegration, thereby reducing recidivism. Societal support for these programs is dependent on society's perception of the criminal justice system as either rehabilitative or punitive. By means of an electronic survey, this study examines people's perception of the criminal justice system, and their subsequent perception of prison based programming. The findings will help social workers in advocating for a rehabilitative approach within the prison system."