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Crisis in Corrections (From Readings in Social Defense, P 224-239, 1981, Navin C Joshi and Ved B Bhatia, ed. - See NCJ-90685)

NCJ Number
90698
Author(s)
S P Srivastava
Date Published
1981
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This paper identifies those corrections problems that prevent the achieving of rehabilitation objectives, and recommendations for improvement are offered.
Abstract
Corrections fails in efforts to rehabilitate offenders because of the conflicting demands placed upon it; on the one hand, corrections is expected to reform its charges, while it is also expected to punish and confine them. Corrections also fails due to its mass treatment approach. Mass treatment methods stifle individual development and tend to ignore individual needs. Other factors contributing to corrections failures are the poor knowledge base on effective rehabilitative approaches, a lack of clear direction and overall plan, inadequate resources and personnel, low public credibility, and an excessive dependence on incarceration. The latter problem can be corrected by developing an expanded battery of sentencing options, with incarceration being only one of many dispositions. This should be accompanied with an increase in the number of offenders placed in community programs. Where incarceration is used, every effort should be made to prepare inmates for responsible living patterns after release. Qualification standards for corrections personnel must be raised, and working conditions and pay improved. Preservice and inservice training programs must remain abreast of the latest corrections concepts. Research is needed in the following areas: cost effectiveness; administrative styles; standards for facilities; and evaluation of staff, programs, and offenders. Efforts must also be undertaken to improve community participation in corrections. Fifty-six references are listed.