Difference Between Inarceration And Probation

It is possible that those placed on probation just made a small mistake in judgment and the fear that they could have possibly been incarcerated will deter them from committing again. While probation might be more effective in lowering recidivism, incarceration is more effective in deterrence because it is a harsher punishment than probation. Because some view probation as a small slap of the wrist, it is not as effective in deterring people from committing a crime (Cole, Smith & DeJong, 2014).
Probation is more humane and cost effective and it also allows people to maintain their family and community ties, which are extremely important in reducing recidivism. People placed on probation are less likely than those sent to prison for the same offense to re-offend (Dolan, 2016).
Issues
With both incarceration and probation, there is great discrepancy between states when it comes to enforcing these punishments. For example, Rhode Island has an extremely low incarceration rate, but an extremely high probation rate. They have the 48th highest rate of incarceration, but the third highest probation rate. Rohde Island’s rate of probation is over twice as high as the probation rate in other New England states. The probation sentences issued by the state of Rhode Island are 53 percent longer than the national average and they are one of fourteen

However, a common critique of incarceration is that it isolates people and makes reintegration an extremely difficult process. While it is already awfully difficult for offenders to find a job after obtaining a poor criminal background, reintegration into society after not being able to interact with family and one’s community can have a negative effect on offenders, which could possibly lead them to commit more crime or become mentally unstable Cole, Smith & DeJong,