The historical review of probation looks at probation versus parole, problems and issues in probation, and the role of probation officers. Recent developments in probation are noted, including probation subsidies, pretrial services and pretrial diversion, intensive probation supervision, shock probation, restitution, job banks, complex offender projects, community resource management teams, and community corrections. The theoretical basis of electronic monitoring as an alternative sentence is discussed. The case management approach to counseling offenders on electronic monitoring focuses on case manager generalists and counselors, the therapeutic relationship, core conditions for empathetic case managers, the psychosocial assessment process, and case management of planned change intervention. The use of electronic monitoring in three selected probation departments and reports of staff satisfaction with the approach are described. A study is reported of the effects of electronically monitored home confinement on offenders and their home environments. Critical issues in the future for electronic monitoring programs are identified, such as legal issues, technical equipment considerations, economic issues, design and organizational issues, counseling versus surveillance, and selection criteria and screening. Notes