1. Deterrent Theory- the main objective of this theory is to abstain a person from doing an Act that may constitute in a crime. it seeks to serve as a warning to the offender not to repeat the offence in the future.
2. Retributive Theory- The objective of this theory is to make the offender realize the pain and suffering of his acts.
3. Preventive Theory- It seeks to prevent and keep away the offender from the society in order to achieve this, offenders are punished with death, life imprisonment etc.
4. Reformative Theory- The idea in this theory is to reform the behavior of the criminal. It is believed that criminal behaviors is shaped by the social, economic and environmental conditions and that by education and training criminals they can be made competent to behave well in the society.