Evidence shows that punishment can be a component of reformation. Further, recidivism can be reduced by sentencing and correctional practices that differ greatly for offenders who vary with regard to their criminal involvement. Punishment or the threat of punishment is required by law in virtually all sentences, for several purposes. One is to appease crime victims; another is to reform offenders, a phenomenon called individual or special deterrence by legal scholars and negative or aversive reinforcement by psychologists. A problem, however, is that offenders cannot be classified with absolute precision in terms of their involvement in criminal and noncriminal pursuits. Penalties that reduce recidivism are cost-effective and can impose just deserts, and promoting their use is a duty of courts, corrections, and legislatures. The role of community corrections versus incarceration and the importance of vocational training for offenders are discussed. 28 references