Do you think that if a person underwent a trauma such as physical or sexual abuse it should make a difference on how they are sentenced when committing a crime?
For instance, if someone who was abused as a child committed a similar act, say assault, should they be subjected to a less severe sentence than someone who had no instances of abuse in their past? In other words, do you feel these people would be more susceptible to rehabilitation, and does this even matter in the light of the crime they committed?
Edit: I am loving all of your comments. I am asking because this is something of a basis for my thesis. Any and all perspectives are extremely appreciated. Also, if you have an idea of where I can take it to write a thorough review of the matter I'd enjoy hearing your point of view and would even source you ;)
Posted Dec 2, 2011, 12:09 AM UTC · edited
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