deterrent effect
Dissuasion by consequence
The deterrent effect is the discouraging influence that a potential consequence has on behavior.
In criminal justice, it refers to how the threat of punishment prevents people from committing crimes: Studies question whether the death penalty has any real deterrent effect.
The concept extends beyond law—nuclear weapons are said to have a deterrent effect on war between major powers, and high prices have a deterrent effect on consumption.
The phrase emphasizes prevention through fear of consequences rather than through physical barriers.
- disincentiveFactor discouraging action
- finesMonetary sanctions or particles
- punishmentPenalty for an offense
- death penaltyLegal execution for crimes
- security measuresPrecautions against threats
fear · sanctions · dissuasion · cost benefit · legal precedent · slap on the wrist · compliance · crime prevention · broken windows · sentencing guidelines · tough on crime · scared straight · aversion · warning signs · stigma · peer pressure · surveillance systems · incarceration
deterrent effectencouragement
Support spurring continued effort
inducement · enticement · invitation · impetus · spur
deterrent effectpositive reinforcement
Strengthening behavior through rewards
benefit · payoff · perverse incentive · moral hazard · backfire effect