A type of deterrence based on the idea that the only way to prevent criminals from offending again is to remove them from society.

A strategy of punishment associated with positivist approaches to criminology. Sick offenders are removed from society (institutionalized or imprisoned) if they cannot be cured and rehabilitated, in order to protect society from harm. See also Deterrence and Retribution.

Added - 09 Thu March 2006 Incapacitation menas to physically remove dangerous criminals so that they cannot harm society.

Added - 09 Thu March 2006 Incapacitation means physically removing dangerous criminals so that they cannot harm society.

the use of imprisonment or other means to reduce the likelihood that an offender will be capable of committing future offenses.

The policy of keeping dangerous criminals in confinement to eliminate the risk of their repeating their offense in society.