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Correctional Policies - Evolving Trends (From Social Work in Juvenile and Criminal Justice Settings, P 45-65, 1983, A R Roberts, ed. - See NCJ-91641)

NCJ Number
91644
Author(s)
S R Gelman
Date Published
1983
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This discussion of the evolving trends in correctional policies defines the nature of the problem requiring a correctional response, theoretical approaches to the problem, goals and objectives, historical responses to the problem, cost, and intended and unintended effects.
Abstract
Conflicting if not mutually exclusive value premises regarding the role and function of correctional activities, coupled with economic and political considerations, play crucial roles in determining correctional policy. The intent of correctional policies is mixed, reflecting both rehabilitative and 'just deserts' elements. At different times in history, one or the other of these perspectives dominates. Although the emphasis in correctional policy in the 1980's appears to have shifted once again toward the just deserts premise, the existence of mixed policy objectives continues. References to rehabilitation, with its concern for civil rights, due process, and individualized treatment, continues to dominate much of the professional social work and correctional literature, while the media and legislative task forces increasingly are calling for a 'hard-line' approach to deal with crime. This hard-line approach emphasizes incarceration, the provision of resources for more prison bed space, and the adoption of policies that are designed to protect the public and ensure the security of correctional institutions. The hard-line approach in also apparent in the limitations on how much process is due inmates eligible for parole, the move toward determinate sentencing, the abolition of parole, and limitations on the immunity of parole board members. Although the hard-line approach has significant support, empirical evidence indicates that it is not likely to heavily impact the crime problem, thus ensuring that policy shifts will again occur in the future. Forty-six references are provided.