Which statement best captures a limitation of deterrence theory?

Which statement best captures a limitation of deterrence theory?

• A. It Cannot Influence Behavior In Any Context
• B. It Ignores The Role Of Socialization And Norms
• C. It May Not Address Root Causes Like Poverty Or Social Inequality
• D. It Consistently Leads To Lower Crime Rates

Answer: (C)

Deterrence theory rests on the idea that crime is a rational choice and people will be discouraged from offending if the costs (punishment) are clear and certain. The limitation here is that punishing people treats the behavior rather than the underlying reasons why people offend. If crime is driven by poverty, lack of opportunity, or deep social inequality, simply raising the threat of punishment doesn’t remove those conditions and may even worsen them, so crime can continue despite punishment. It also overlooks that not all crimes are the result of deliberate calculation—some are impulsive or influenced by social factors where the deterrent effect is weak.

So the statement that best captures this limitation is that deterrence may not address root causes like poverty or social inequality.