Shaming As Punishment

Introduction to sociology text reflects two types of shaming as punishment; reintegrative and stigmatizing.  Reintegrative promotes integration back into the community with the assistance of family, friends and coworkers, however stigmatizing, labels the offender as a threat to society where the offender is treated as an outcast.  I believe stigmatizing can have disastrous affects, but it may be necessary, given the offender's history.  Stigmatizing is a natural response to criminal behavior.  I'm sure, treating someone as an outcast will most definitely lead to repeat criminal activity.  When you're treated indifferent especially in cases like these, obtaining a job is almost impossible.  Without the means to care for him/herself or family, it's likely that the offender will eventually return to criminal activity. Reintegration is probably the best way to help an offender rebuild.  It invokes accountability.  There are some offenders who may not benefit from reintegration depending on their willingness to comply with requirements.  The deciding factor is a matter of evaluating the seriousness of the crime, the willingness of the offender and the assistance of family, friends and community during in the process.