OUTLINE OF' GROUP PSYCHOTHERAPY FOR JUVENILE DELINQUENTS AND CRIMINAL OFFENDERS

Abstract

Tbe theory of punishment popularly accepted in our society is that the wrongdoer is punished; (1) to reform or rehabilitate him; (2) to protect society; and (3) for the purpose of deterring the person involved or others from engaging in similar criminal activity. The first element of this theory is tested by the question, does punishment in the form of confinement really help criminals to reform or to be rehabilitated? Do they come out of confinement after serving their terms as better persons? It is indeed doubtful whether this purpose is ever achieved.

As regards the protection of society, I am ready to admit that society is entitled to live in peace and tranquility and lo be protected from those who have committed asocial or antisocial acts, and who are likely to do so again. But, in my view, society receives better protection if the criminal is confined where he can receive psychiatric treatment leading to the improvement or cure of the condition or state that helped to make him an offender in the in the first place.