How did the concept of rehabilitation influence criminal justice policies in the 20th century?

In the 20th century, the concept of rehabilitation significantly influenced criminal justice policies, leading to a shift in focus towards reforming offenders rather than solely punishing them. This evolution stemmed from the belief that treating and addressing the root causes of criminal behavior could ultimately reduce recidivism rates and improve public safety.

Evolution of Rehabilitation in the 20th Century

Rehabilitation programs emerged as a response to the punitive approaches dominating the criminal justice system. The emphasis was placed on the reformation and resocialization of offenders through education, vocational training, and therapy to prevent repeat offenses.

Impact on Criminal Justice Policies

The introduction of rehabilitation led to significant changes in criminal justice policies, with an increased focus on providing treatment and support to individuals within the justice system. This approach aimed to address the underlying issues that contributed to criminal behavior and offer offenders a chance for redemption and reintegration into society.

Overall, the concept of rehabilitation in the 20th century played a crucial role in shaping criminal justice policies by promoting a more holistic and humane approach to addressing crime and offenders.