For years, prison reform has been a topic of heavy debate for Canadians. With large sums of money being invested in our prison system but relatively high crime and recidivism rates, it begs the question if our current system and practices are as effective as we think they are. Delving further into our retributive based system and its practices, some consider Canadian prisons to be inhumane and cruel. While some argue that punishment is the objective of our prisons and hostile environments are therefore justified, it seems that the focus on punishment is not as productive as we believe. Is it time for us to be shifting towards more rehabilitative practices?