This book is designed to be a text primarily for undergraduate students who are taking their first survey course in corrections. The text begins with a brief history and coverage of some of the theories that relate to crime causation. The text later shows that these theories have implications for correctional programs and treatment approaches. A chapter deals with sentencing and criminal sanctions to show how cases arrive at the correctional system. Also discussed are correctional institutions such as jails and prisons, as well as the numerous alternatives to incarceration, notably probation, parole, and community corrections. Rather than include separate chapters on juveniles or female offenders, these issues are discussed at relevant points throughout the text. A discussion of careers in corrections should help students decide whether they wish to pursue any of these careers. Sections on corrections in the 21st century preview the kinds of issues corrections will face in the future, such as women in the correctional workplace, legislative trends, reform movements, the control of correctional costs, and dealing with institutional crowding. Each chapter includes a list of key terms, a list of recommended readings, and review questions.