Which definition aligns with punishment that focuses on pain and suffering to protect those who have been wronged?

• A. Rehabilitation
• B. Punishment focusing on pain and suffering - protects those who have been wronged
• C. Deterrence
• D. Equity and proportionality

Answer: (B)

Retribution is the idea that punishment is deserved because the offender harmed someone, and the punishment should reflect the moral injury by making the offender suffer in a way that is proportionate to the crime. It aims to restore a sense of justice and to protect those who have been wronged by showing that wrongdoing carries consequences. This isn’t primarily about changing the offender’s behavior (rehabilitation) or deterring others (deterrence); it’s about accountability and honoring victims and societal norms. In the Canadian corrections context, this perspective emphasizes that sentences should reflect the severity of the harm and uphold justice, aligning with the notion of punishing to balance the wrong done.