Criminal Justice Practice Exam

What has been the general result of America's reliance on prisons to control crime over the last 200 years?

1. It has generally exceeded people's expectations

2. It makes the public less concerned about crime

3. It has generally met people's expectations

4. It has never done very well

The correct answer is: It has never done very well

The general result of America's reliance on prisons over the last 200 years has indeed shown that this approach has not been very effective in controlling crime. Despite significant investment in the prison system, high incarceration rates have not correlated with a definitive or consistent decrease in crime rates. This approach often leads to a cycle of re-offending, where individuals who are incarcerated may not receive the necessary rehabilitation or support needed to reintegrate into society effectively. Consequently, many former inmates find themselves returning to prison, contributing to overcrowded facilities and strained resources. The expectation that heavy reliance on imprisonment alone can create a safer society has not materialized, as underlying social issues contributing to crime, such as poverty, lack of education, and mental health issues, often remain unaddressed. This realization has led to growing criticism of a punitive system that fails to resolve the root causes of criminal behavior, suggesting an overarching need for reform in how society approaches crime and punishment.