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Abstract: 

According to the deterrence theory, human beings are rational, and their decisions to violate the law are based on their perception of risks for sanctions and on their past experiences of punishment. There are basically two types of deterrence: general and specific. The former indicates that sanctions of criminals generate fear of punishment in the general public, thus preventing individuals from committing crimes; the latter means that criminals’ own experiences of punishment increase their fear of punishment, which reduces their chances of involvement in future law violation. This article looks at these theories in relation to drunk driving.

Keywords: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services; Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST);

Affiliations:  1: New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services.