Introduction: Exploring criminal justice in Asia from a psycho-criminological perspective

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores the different aspects of the criminal justice system in Asia from a psycho-criminological standpoint, with particular emphases on the Hong Kong and Singapore contexts. It presents the development of a unique treatment programme for female offenders in Hong Kong. The "Psychological Gymnasium" is established to adopt gender-responsive approaches that include the formation of a therapeutic community and the incorporation of an everyday life perspective into psychotherapy in addressing the gender-specific needs of female offenders. The book provides a review of the development of offender rehabilitation and treatment in the Singapore Prison Service. It explores important work that has been conducted in the area of procedural justice and legitimacy, with emphasis on the perceptions of young people towards legal authorities in Hong Kong.