Photo AI
Explain why there were changes in the use of prison as a punishment in the period c1900–present - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 4
Explain why there were changes in the use of prison as a punishment in the period c1900–present. You may use the following in your answer: - borstals - open prisons... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain why there were changes in the use of prison as a punishment in the period c1900–present - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
The role of borstals
Answer
Borstals were introduced as an alternative to traditional prisons for young offenders. They aimed to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, emphasizing education and training. This marked a shift in thinking about the effectiveness of purely punitive measures, promoting the belief that reform was possible, especially for younger individuals.
Step 2
The development of open prisons
Answer
Open prisons emerged as a progression in the prison system, allowing inmates more freedom and responsibility in a less restrictive environment. This approach was rooted in the understanding that offenders could reintegrate into society more successfully if they experienced gradual re-entry, thus reducing the likelihood of reoffending.
Step 3
Societal attitudes towards rehabilitation
Answer
Over the 20th century, there was a notable shift in societal perspectives on crime and punishment. The recognition that criminals were often products of their environment led to a growing support for rehabilitation. The rise of criminology and social sciences influenced policies, advocating for understanding the root causes of crime rather than purely punitive responses.
Step 4
Legislative changes
Answer
Changes in the legal framework, such as the implementation of the Criminal Justice Act, further pushed for reforms in the prison system. This legislation reflected a broader understanding of criminal behavior and emphasized rehabilitation, which moved away from older, more punitive measures.