What does "rehabilitation" refer to in corrections?

"Rehabilitation" in corrections specifically refers to the process aimed at reforming an offender. This approach prioritizes helping individuals address the underlying issues that contribute to their criminal behavior, such as substance abuse, mental health disorders, or lack of education and job skills. The goal of rehabilitation is to reintegrate offenders into society as productive citizens, reducing the likelihood of reoffending.

Rehabilitative efforts may include counseling, vocational training, educational programs, and other supportive services that address personal and social factors related to criminal behavior. By focusing on these aspects, rehabilitation seeks not only to punish but also to promote personal growth, accountability, and societal reintegration. This is a fundamental shift from purely punitive measures, which do not focus on the offender's potential for change and improvement.