Which approach focuses on deterring the individual criminal?

The approach that focuses on deterring the individual criminal is specific deterrence. This concept revolves around the idea that by punishing an individual offender, that person will be discouraged from committing future crimes. Specific deterrence is tailored to the individual and aims to instill a personal consequence for their actions, thereby reducing the likelihood of reoffending.

In contrast, general deterrence aims to deter the broader public from committing crimes by setting an example through the punishment of others. Rehabilitation focuses on reforming the offender to prevent future crime through education, therapy, or community support rather than punishment alone. Incapacitation involves removing offenders from society to prevent them from committing further crimes, but it does not necessarily aim to change their behavior or prevent future criminal acts through deterrence.