Final answer:
Disciplinary actions against inmates are intended to punish for offenses and rehabilitate for societal re-entry, with the goals of deterrence and norm enforcement within the justice system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main function of disciplinary actions against inmates is twofold: to punish the individual for their offenses and to rehabilitate them so they can re-enter society as law-abiding citizens. Punishment serves to deter the inmates and others from future criminal behavior, a concept known as deterrence. Rehabilitation, on the other hand, seeks to transform the individual through various programs, such as education, vocational training, and therapy.
Formal sanctions within the justice system recognize and enforce norm violations and can range from arrest to imprisonment. The complexity of this issue is evident in the ongoing debate regarding the effectiveness of incarceration, especially for juveniles, and whether harsher penalties or more enlightened approaches to justice, such as diversion programs, are more effective.