Band 6+: Some feel that punishment should focus more on rehabilitation instead of long prison terms. Others feel prison terms are important for social stability. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

In order to maintain a social order, which out of the two – rehabilitation or longer sentences – should be decided for the criminals? Although extended sentence could be a deterrent for potential criminals, I assert that emphasize should be on rehabilitation, which will eliminate social stigma and allow criminals to reintegrate back to society.

Admittedly, a lengthy sentence might discourage the potential offenders. This type of punishment not only would signal the society about unacceptability of any kind of delinquency but also give them assurance that they would not be harmed by any criminal, thereby, providing them a sense of security.

Conversely, attention over rehabilitation will provide an opportunity to eliminate social stigmas. Since some crimes are committed under the influence of poverty, unstable family background and a lack of education, addressing these issues through counselling, vocational trainings and skill building programs, will definitely control the rate of re-offence. As a result, it will be a pragmatic approach to create productive member which are focused to contribute positively in the society. For example, had the government of Australia not established the infrastructure to teach vocational skills, such as plumbing and carpentry in prison, the adult criminals would not have been able to pursue their career and improve their living standards after release.

Another point to consider is restoration of inmates to societal norms through rehabilitation. Because of counselling on how to survive in the society and family, such programs can help repair the bonds with family members, friends or neighbors; moreover, it will give individuals a stronger support system after release. This sense of belonging and accountability towards society will motivate them to make positive life choice. A survey carried out by a leading newspaper, The Times, unveiled that most of teenagers with criminal records had been enrolled in between 2001 and 2021 to pursue their formal fundamental education.

In conclusion, while the longer prisons would expect a decline in future criminality, from my perspective, a rehabilitative approach will fix the root cause of offenses and offer a productive way to facilitate societal reintegration.