Rigidly determined existence

Are you bothered by the thought of a rigidly determined existence? Does the idea that all your actions are determined to disturb you-- or reassure you?
How would a personal belief in determinism affect your view of crime and punishment? Do you think that people are generally responsible for their crimes, or are they not responsible due to deterministic forces beyond their control?

Do you believe that every event has a cause and that free actions are possible? If so, are these beliefs compatible?