NCJ Number
146344
Journal
Corrections Compendium Volume: 18 Issue: 9 Dated: (September 1993) Pages: 5-7
Date Published
1993
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This paper examines studies evaluating shock incarceration programs as an alternative to traditional correctional programs.
Abstract
Shock incarceration programs, commonly called boot camps, appeared in the early 1980s as an alternative to traditional correctional programs. Offenders spend a relatively short period of time in a quasimilitary program involving physical training, drill, manual labor, and strict discipline. It appears that the number of such programs will grow, and there is interest in enlarging the purposes of these programs, for example as an alternative sanction for drug offenders. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) sponsored a review and comparison survey of all 50 State departments of corrections to learn more about shock programs. Findings of the study include the following: (1) Shock incarceration programs vary greatly, and any evaluation must begin with a description of the program and its objectives; (2) Boot camp experience may be more positive than incarceration in traditional prisons; (3) There is no evidence that those who complete boot camp programs are more angry or negatively affected by the program; (4) Those who complete shock programs view it as a difficult but constructive experience, while offenders who serve their sentences in traditional prisons do not view their experiences as constructive; (5) Recidivism rates are neither higher nor lower than those for groups who serve a longer period of time in a traditional prison or who serve time on probation; (6) Programs differ substantially in the amount of time offenders spend in rehabilitative activities; and (7) Success may be contingent on postrelease support, and on giving offenders the training, treatment, and education needed to promote new behavior. In addition to the study referred to above, NIJ has funded an evaluation of shock incarceration in Louisiana, and a multisite study of shock incarceration programs, including some designed for drug offenders.