NCJ Number
130476
Date Published
1987
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) at Butner, North Carolina, evaluated a model of imprisonment proposed by Professor Norval Morris.
Abstract
The 594 participants, who were randomly selected from a pool of all eligible male inmates in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons from July 1, 1976, through May 1, 1979, were randomly assigned to the experimental treatment at Butner or remained in their respective institutions serving as the control group. The essential principle of the Morris model is to use the minimum coercion necessary to confine the prisoner for the period of time prescribed by the courts. It emphasizes a positive environment in which inmates are allowed to volunteer for programs, to preserve much of their individuality, and to live in a humane environment. The major specifications of the model were met at Butner. The institution was perceived by both staff and inmates as positive. There was more active program participation among Butner research inmates than among control group inmates, and a safer environment was provided for both staff and inmates. A comprehensive follow-up study revealed no marked differences between experimental and control inmates. Implications of the study for correctional practice are discussed. 2 tables and 10 references (Author abstract modified)