❖ Question:
People under the age of 18 who commit crimes should be re-educated rather than punished. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
✦ Sample Answer
It is widely debated whether minors who engage in criminal activities should be punished or re-educated. While some argue that punishment acts as a deterrent, I firmly believe that re-education is a more appropriate and effective approach for offenders under the age of 18, as it focuses on rehabilitation and long-term behavioral change.
To begin with, young offenders are still in their formative years and more likely to respond positively to educational and psychological interventions. Their moral compass is still developing, and many commit crimes due to lack of guidance, poor environment, or peer pressure. For example, community-based correction programs in countries like Norway have shown remarkable success in reintegrating juvenile offenders through vocational training and counseling. By focusing on education and skill-building, such programs reduce the likelihood of repeat offenses. Thus, re-education not only benefits the individual but also contributes to a safer society.
In contrast, harsh punishment at a young age can have long-term negative consequences. Incarcerating minors alongside adult criminals may expose them to more hardened offenders and worsen their behavior. Moreover, punishment without rehabilitation can lead to social stigma, low self-esteem, and limited job prospects, making reintegration into society extremely difficult. Studies show that juvenile detention centers with minimal educational or psychological support tend to have high reoffending rates. Therefore, punishment alone fails to address the root causes of criminal behavior in youths.
In conclusion, while some level of accountability is necessary, I strongly agree that re-educating young offenders is far more effective than punishing them. Rehabilitative approaches not only transform lives but also build a more inclusive and secure society in the long run.
❖ Vocabulary and Collocations
| Word/Phrase | Meaning / Usage |
|---|---|
| Formative years | The early, developmentally important years of life |
| Moral compass | Sense of right and wrong |
| Peer pressure | Influence from people in one's age group |
| Community-based correction | Rehabilitation within society instead of prison |
| Vocational training | Practical job skill education |
| Repeat offenses | Committing crimes again (recidivism) |
| Harsh punishment | Strict or severe penalties |
| Social stigma | Negative public perception |
| Reoffending rates | Frequency of committing crimes again |
| Rehabilitative approaches | Methods focused on recovery and reform |
No comments:
Post a Comment