Care for released prisoners has always been a neglected area, despite society's awareness that a prison sentence frequently increases problems and that the period after release is the most difficult time for the individual. The Norwegian government noted that most crimes were committed by people who already had a criminal record. The main challenge, therefore, is to reduce the incidence of recidivism. In a 1991 survey, clients in a Norwegian probation service answered that factors which should be present if they were to remain law-abiding included: (1) a permanent place to live; (2) a narcotics-free environment; (3) organized help to live free of narcotics; (4) education; and (5) stable employment. The government believes that schools, social service organizations, health centers, employment authorities and other social institutions are jointly responsible for providing the services that the law imposes on them as a duty, and so contribute to reducing the risk of former prisoners relapsing. References