What is one of the goals of sentencing in the criminal justice system?

One key goal of sentencing in the criminal justice system is to rehabilitate the offender. Rehabilitation focuses on helping offenders change their behavior and reintegrate into society as law-abiding citizens. This approach recognizes that many individuals who commit crimes may have underlying issues, such as substance abuse, mental health problems, or lack of education and job skills. By addressing these factors through various programs, such as counseling, education, or vocational training, the justice system aims to reduce the likelihood of reoffending, ultimately enhancing public safety and fostering community reintegration.

This objective is rooted in the belief that punishment alone does not effectively deter future criminal behavior. Instead, by providing offenders with the tools and support necessary for personal growth and change, the criminal justice system works toward a long-term solution for reducing crime. The other options do not align with the fundamental goals of sentencing, as they either focus on external perceptions, financial implications, or outcomes contrary to the aim of decreasing crime rates.