Civilian Recreation Personnel in Correctional Institutions - The Role of the Recreationalist

• NCJ Number: 92890
• Author(s): D V Walakafra-Wills
• Date Published: 1983
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Recreationalists play an important role in the successful operation of prisons and jails. This professional will become increasingly important as the benefits of well-run recreation programs are seen.

Abstract

Because of the explosion in prison population, more civilian employees are working alongside sworn officers. The officers sometimes distrust the new employees and relegate them to second-class status. These two types of prison workers must learn to trust and communicate well with each other. As recreation programs are turned over to professional recreationalists, officers will see that a good program decreases the incidence of violence and aggressive behavior. Trained recreationalists can go far beyond the traditional baby-sitter role of the recreation officer by educating inmates about physical fitness training and exercising. Recreation supervisors can settle potential violent outbreaks by providing alternative outlets. The Recreation Bill of Rights is included.