It is thought by some people that the main purpose of prison is punishment for offenders, but others assume that it should rehabilitate them. Although the latter perspective seems more beneficial in some cases, I believe that prison has a lot of responsibilities to give criminals a better life, which would also be economically advantageous.
On the one hand, the fact that criminals are imprisoned is a way to maintain justice in society. People can see that crimes are punished and feel fairness and security. It can be added that punishments can prevent individuals from committing a crime, because they will be demonstrated the consequences of this action. For example, in Russia, prisons are well-known for their poor conditions and strict inner rules. Therefore, people try to avoid committing crimes in order not to be punished.
On the other hand, prison is a very effective way to improve the behaviour of offenders. A lot of these institutions provide prisoners with special programs related to mental health, fitness, education, and communication. People who spend a lot of time in prison have a chance to change their worldview and set up new goals and values for their future life. For instance, plenty of prisons in Switzerland fulfill projects for offenders who committed tough crimes. They involve a great number of specialists, such as psychologists, to enhance mental health of prisoners and make them less dangerous for society. I believe that rehabilitation is beneficial, for the reason that offenders after a prison can improve the economy of their country. While being prisoned, they can learn new essential skills and techniques in order to be involved in the labor market after going out to freedom.
In conclusion, some people consider that criminal’s punishment is essential, because it will maintain justice and prevent new crimes. However, the process of rehabilitation in prisons can give offenders a chance to start a new life and improve the economy of their country by being involved in work.