NCJ Number
175337
Journal
Journal of the Oklahoma Criminal Justice Research Consortium Volume: 3 (August 1996) Issue: Dated: Pages: 85-105
Date Published
1996
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This article examines whether programming at Oklahoma's correctional facilities for women reflects the needs of the inmates.
Abstract
During the past decade, Oklahoma has incarcerated more women per capita than any other State in the Nation, and the rate increases annually. This study updates information on female inmates in Oklahoma's four women's correctional facilities and attempts to determine whether available programs meet the needs of those inmates. Inmates completed, on a voluntary basis and with guarantees of anonymity, a 50-item multiple choice survey about demographics, family, criminal history, education, substance abuse, and physical and mental health. Survey results disclosed a need for more educational, skills training, psychological, and substance abuse programs. Many of the women had not been prepared to support themselves when they were released from prison. In addition, the facilities should offer more programs that increase family participation and nurture family relationships. Tables, references, appendix