Final answer:
A system of rewards and punishments is indeed a method used in total institutions, such as prisons, to resocialize people by encouraging conformity to new rules. While these systems are critical in such settings, resocialization can also occur through other life transitions and cultural shifts without the presence of a total institution.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, a system of rewards and punishments is one way a total institution resocializes people. Total institutions are places where individuals are isolated from the broader society and must follow strict rules, leading to a process of resocialization. Examples of total institutions include ships at sea, religious convents, and prisons. In these environments, a system of rewards and punishments is employed to enforce conformity to new norms and rules, which facilitates the resocialization process. However, it's important to note that resocialization can also occur without a total institution. For instance, individuals may experience resocialization when joining a new cultural group or after a significant life change.
Notably, in the criminal justice system, punishments and rewards serve as a form of social control. They are designed to encourage adherence to societal norms. Some believe that harsher penalties within total institutions can deter criminal behavior, while others argue for a focus on rehabilitation over punishment. Beyond the criminal justice implications, the system of rewards and punishments is recognized as a key component of socialization and maintaining societal order.