The political context in which the Probation Service operates is examined, with focus on both historical and normative factors contributing to tensions between the social work and control functions of probation officers. Models of and factors influencing field teamwork in probation are examined; and the development of community service orders in England and Wales is traced. The effects of imprisonment on inmates' sense of identity and community ties are discussed with reference to the role of prison and probation services in facilitating adjustment to release. The domain challenges posed to probation in the United States by the justice model of penology and disillusionment with the rehabilitative ideal are evaluated. Housing, employment, and educational needs of offenders are identified, and Probation Service initiatives and Government and private sector efforts to meet these needs are detailed. The relationship between alcohol problems and crime is examined, and services for probation clients with drinking problems are described. Institutional racism in the Probation Service is discussed, and reforms are recommended. Factors contributing to increased interest in reparation, community service, and victim compensation are discussed. Interorganizational approaches to crime prevention also are discussed, and crime prevention and community involvement activities by the Probation Service are considered with focus on the need for a theoretical framework and new approaches to program evaluation. Chapter references. See NCJ-116500 through NCJ-116511 for individual chapters.