NCJ Number
166710
Journal
American Jails Volume: 10 Issue: 3 Dated: (July/August 1996) Pages: 9,11-13,16
Date Published
1996
Length
5 pages
Annotation
After examining the negative stereotyping of corrections personnel portrayed in the movies and the media, this article suggests ways in which corrections professionals can provide the public with a more accurate view of the characteristics, philosophy, and work of correctional personnel.
Abstract
Although Hollywood and the media typically portray the police and the courts as rescuers of innocent victims from criminal predators and as heroic administrators of justice, correctional personnel are usually portrayed as cold, sadistic, and oppressive villains who prey upon helpless, sensitive, and long-suffering inmates. Although corrections does have a history of such brutality, this is by no means the current status of corrections in the large majority of jurisdictions. A positive linkage between corrections and the public must be established if the public perception of corrections is to change. Suggested approaches include annual facility open houses and maximum staff participation in college job fairs; sponsorship of community youth activities; proactive media tours of facilities and ongoing discussions with editors and reporters before emergencies occur; newspaper columns by correctional administrators; promotion of positive newspaper articles and participation in reputable radio, television, and college discussion groups or programs; and the use of organized letter writing campaigns to protest negative stereotyping in the entertainment and news media. 13 references