Chicago Police Department (CPD) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CPD Practice Questions and Study Guide

Specific Deterrence is a theory in criminal justice that focuses on the impact of punishment on a particular individual who has already committed a crime. When an individual faces punishment, whether through incarceration, fines, or other penalties, the aim of specific deterrence is to instill a fear of future consequences. This fear ideally leads the individual to choose not to engage in criminal behavior again, understanding that the repercussions of their actions are significant and undesirable.

The mechanism of specific deterrence operates on the principle that experiencing the consequences of criminal behavior can serve as a powerful disincentive for that individual. By highlighting the risks associated with reoffending, it encourages the individual to avoid future criminal acts to escape further punishment. In essence, the knowledge of the potential for recapture and sentencing can promote a reconsideration of future choices regarding criminal activities.

The other choices do not reflect the principles of specific deterrence effectively. For instance, the notion that individuals become more likely to commit crimes contradicts the very essence of deterrence, which aims to reduce the likelihood of further offenses. Additionally, the idea that individuals might forget the consequences suggests a lack of lasting impact from punishment, undermining the theory's objective. Lastly, seeking notoriety through further crimes does not align