PEN2601
Assignment 2 Semester 1 2025
Unique Number:
Due Date: 24 April 2025
QUESTION 1
Deterrence as a penal objective aims to discourage criminal behaviour through the threat
or experience of punishment. It can be divided into two main categories: specific
(individual) deterrence and general deterrence. The case of Mr X, a repeat offender from
Mthatha, provides a practical context to analyse these two forms of deterrence and
determine which is more applicable to his situation.
Specific (Individual) Deterrence
Specific deterrence refers to the impact that punishment has on the individual offender,
aiming to discourage them from reoffending. According to Rabie and Strauss (1979:11),
the purpose is that once a person experiences the suffering of punishment, they are
conditioned to avoid crime in the future – in other words, ―once bitten, twice shy‖ (Mays,
1975:82).
In Mr X’s case, specific deterrence appears to have failed. He was first imprisoned at age
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their own research and seek advice from their instructors or academic advisors for specific assignment guidelines.
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regarding plagiarism, citation, and referencing. These study notes should be used as learning tools and sources of
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the use of these notes. This includes, but is not limited to, poor academic performance, penalties, or any other negative
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Assignment 2 Semester 1 2025
Unique Number:
Due Date: 24 April 2025
QUESTION 1
Deterrence as a penal objective aims to discourage criminal behaviour through the threat
or experience of punishment. It can be divided into two main categories: specific
(individual) deterrence and general deterrence. The case of Mr X, a repeat offender from
Mthatha, provides a practical context to analyse these two forms of deterrence and
determine which is more applicable to his situation.
Specific (Individual) Deterrence
Specific deterrence refers to the impact that punishment has on the individual offender,
aiming to discourage them from reoffending. According to Rabie and Strauss (1979:11),
the purpose is that once a person experiences the suffering of punishment, they are
conditioned to avoid crime in the future – in other words, ―once bitten, twice shy‖ (Mays,
1975:82).
In Mr X’s case, specific deterrence appears to have failed. He was first imprisoned at age
DISCLAIMER & TERMS OF USE
Educational Aid: These study notes are intended to be used as educational resources and should not be seen as a
replacement for individual research, critical analysis, or professional consultation. Students are encouraged to perform
their own research and seek advice from their instructors or academic advisors for specific assignment guidelines.
Personal Responsibility: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information in
these study notes, the seller does not guarantee the completeness or correctness of all content. The buyer is
responsible for verifying the accuracy of the information and exercising their own judgment when applying it to their
assignments.
Academic Integrity: It is essential for students to maintain academic integrity and follow their institution's policies
regarding plagiarism, citation, and referencing. These study notes should be used as learning tools and sources of
inspiration. Any direct reproduction of the content without proper citation and acknowledgment may be considered
academic misconduct.
Limited Liability: The seller shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, losses, or consequences arising from
the use of these notes. This includes, but is not limited to, poor academic performance, penalties, or any other negative
consequences resulting from the application or misuse of the information provided.
