Findings show that, first and foremost, Americans expect the correctional system to protect them from convicted criminals. This means that the correctional system is expected to identify the appropriate level of supervision and custody for each offender, such that it is consistent with public safety. The public also expects that efforts will be made in prisons and other correctional settings to provide services for offenders that may increase the likelihood that they will become law-abiding citizens after they leave the jurisdiction of the correctional system. These services include education, training, and counseling designed to reduce the offender deficits associated with criminal behavior. Politicians who call for harsher punishments for criminals claim a mandate from the people for their philosophy; however, there is evidence from previous research that political leaders often misjudge the public's views and preferences. Some researchers have found that most Americans believe that although prison life should be hard, it should also be humane and offer offenders a chance at rehabilitation. Respondents support rehabilitation because they realize that most offenders will eventually be back in the community. 3 tables