The discussion first notes the shift in measurement strategies from the use of statutory provisions to the use of official records. Next, since it is just as reasonable to assert that the criminal justice system adjusts to changes in the crime rate as it is to suggest that the crime rate is influenced by criminal sanctions, the study considers longitudinal studies of deterrence, refining the conclusions from cross sectional research. Because cross sectional and longitudinal analyses as well as the conceptual underpinnings of the deterrence doctrine point to the importance of data on persons' perceptions of sanction severity, several strategies for gathering perceptual data on sanction severity are reviewed. Finally, the discussion considers the utility of extended field research for studying an issue that has largely evaded other research techniques. The mechanisms through which perceptions of sanction severity translate into individual action are examined. Based on this review, two orienting propositions for the measurement of sanction severity are suggested: (1) the severity of punishment depends on the amount of life disruption created; and (2) one critical element of sanction-induced disruption is stress on interpersonal relationships. These propositions can be used to account for variations in sentence severity across time, individuals, and circumstances. Directions for future research are suggested. A total of 115 references are provided. (Author summary modified)