Deterrent - Definition and Overview

Deterrence is the method manipulating a person's action by negative motivational influences.

Deterrence is a criminological theory. Deterrence is the idea that someone can be prevented from committing a crime by fear of the potential consequences. Deterrence is the primary theory of punishment in the United States legal system.

At the military level, deterrence is the basis of the Deterrence theory.

It's also the title of a movie by Director Rod Lurie.