Which definition best describes Retribution?

• A. To influence future behavior - punished for what they have done
• B. Focus on pain and suffering - protects those who have been wronged
• C. Punished no more no less severely than their actions - an eye for an eye
• D. Punishment should be restorative and reformative

Answer: (A)

Retribution is about giving punishment as a deserved response to the wrongdoing, focusing on accountability for the act itself rather than on changing future behavior or repairing harm. The best fit expresses punishment for what the offender has done, highlighting that the punishment is tied to the offense and serves as a moral response to the crime. Deterrence aims to influence future behavior and is not the central aim of retribution, while restorative or reformative approaches focus on repairing harm or rehabilitating the offender, not simply punishing them for the act they committed.