Criminal responsibility refers to the legal concept that determines whether an individual can be held accountable for their actions under the law. It assesses whether a person had the mental capacity to understand the nature of their actions and the consequences at the time the crime was committed. Factors such as age, mental illness, and intent play a crucial role in this evaluation. In many legal systems, individuals deemed incapable of understanding their actions, such as minors or those with severe mental disorders, may be considered not criminally responsible. This means they may receive treatment or rehabilitation instead of traditional punishment, reflecting a focus on their ability to comprehend right from wrong.