Behavior Analysis Systems in Corrections - A New Approach to the Synthesis of Correctional Theory, Practice, Management and Research

• NCJ Number: 73901
• Journal: Canadian Journal of Criminology Volume: 22 Issue: 4 Dated: (October 1980) Pages: 412-427
• Author(s): J J Kiessling; D A Andrews
• Date Published: 1980
• Length: 16 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: Canada

Annotation

This study examines a set of concepts and processes, based on behavior theory and systems theory, which generates successful strategies equally applicable to correctional counseling and counselors' training and management.

Abstract

The study's authors developed five strategies or dimensions of effective correctional counseling which correctional officers and social workers can use in counseling prison inmates and probationers. The same strategies can be applied by managers and supervisors to train their staffs in counseling skills and interpersonal relations. Within this conceptual framework correctional officers and social workers' give counseling services to their clients and receive counseling and training from their managers/supervisors based on the same set of concepts. The five dimensions of effective correctional counseling and counselor training are established of a high-quality relationship, problem solving, authority, modeling, and reinforcement. These strategies have proved successful in counselor-inmate interaction, resulting in positive changes in client attitudes and personalities as well as in decreased rates of criminal behavior. At the manager-counseling staff level, the same strategies have produced greater counselor effectiveness. They can also be applied in training volunteers, in that they develop skills useful to all persons in their daily lives and relationships. The Behavior Analysis Systems in Corrections (BASIC) model represents an attempt to integrate these clinical and management perspectives in three basic system structures: selection of correctional counselors; assignment of clients to different programs and workers; and the creation of a differential managemnt management unit. The differential management structure unit has four essential objectives: making staff members responsible for managing different programs within the unit, making intensive use of volunteers, developing specialized roles for unit managers, and creating theory and research groups. The BASIC model is an integrated system of management-staff-client relationships and structures. Twenty-three references are listed.