IGCSE Sociology Unit 2 – Culture, identity and Socialization Practice Test

Deterrence by punishment hinges on the idea that people will refrain from committing crimes if they fear punishment and believe it will happen. A credible threat of punishment is used to discourage wrongdoing before it occurs. That’s why the threat of punishment to discourage crime is the best illustration—it directly relies on fear of consequences to prevent crime. The other options focus on changing behavior through education, performing sanctions that emphasize making amends, or addressing harm through reconciliation, rather than using a clear and looming punishment to deter potential offenders.