The association was formed in 1844 to improve prison conditions, inmate discipline, corrections management, and support for ex-offenders. Initial activities focused on the reasons for pretrial detention, visits to prisons, establishment of a New York City office to support former inmates, and the maintenance of statistics. Throughout its history the association has had an important role in legislative debates on correctional reform and prisoners' rights. The association was integrally involved in efforts in the 19th and early 20th century to reform prison systems throughout the United States. Since the start of the 1980's the association's guiding principles have included using its standing as an independent citizen group to address politically controversial issues and seek positive reforms, being an advocate of particularly disadvantaged inmates, and channeling the public policy debate on criminal justice into the larger context of social issue. The association has issued many reports to educate the public, the media, and government about the issues. Its visiting committee reviews prison conditions. It has also focused on services for inmates with mental disorders, mental retardation, and learning disabilities. Its efforts have helped achieve significant successes on many issues. Photographs, illustrations, and reference notes