Dispositions and Processes - Strategies for the Twenty-First Century (From Contemporary Issues in Corrections, P 7-13, 1981, Sloan Letman et al, ed. - See NCJ-85519)

• NCJ Number: 85520
• Author(s): R Bae; D Weichman
• Date Published: 1981
• Length: 7 pages
• Sale Source: Pilgrimage Press
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS.

Annotation

An analysis of problems associated with contemporary correctional approaches is accompanied by recommendations for future correctional strategies which are sensitive to individual dignity and self-worth and which emphasize community-based treatment programs.

Abstract

Correctional institutions are dangerous to both inmates and guards, lack the basic necessities for a normal existence, and are not conducive to a positive learning experience. However, positive learning is necessary to produce resocialized individuals. It is unrealistic to expect incarcerated persons to become readjusted socially when they are subjected to the inhumane degradation which is characteristic of the prison environment. Community-based treatment programs offer some hope for the 95 percent of inmates who will eventually be released. Correctional agencies should focus on the methods and extent to which they should become involved in community treatment programs and not on whether to become involved. Current educational programs in correctional institutions has not kept pace with the social, economic, political, and technological changes in society. Other problems with correctional education are the traditional and uninspiring nature of the subjects taught and the lack of diversity in the staffing and organization of correctional education departments. Innovative approaches based on individual accountability are needed to permit a futuristic, humanitarian approach to the correctional system. Future programming should also avoid stereotypes of offenders and should eliminate ineffective programs. Five references are listed.