free will

• the criminal justice system is based on the premise that people are morally responsible for their own behaviour, assuming the free will position
• criminals are viewed as accountable for their behaviour and deserving of punishment
• if an individual's behaviour is determined by forces beyond the individual's control, then the individual cannot be held responsible for their actions
• the law states that children and those who are mentally ill dont have this responsibility but there is the assumption in the legal system that 'normal' adult behaviour is self-determined
• criminals are considered responsible for their actions, regardless of innate factors or early experiences
• the assumption of free will can also be seen in the treatment programs with offenders in which clients are encouraged to think differently in order to change their behaviour

  • NOVACO's anger management program
• the underlying premise of such therapies, that people can consciously choose to change their behaviour implies free will