NCJ Number
192558
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 65 Issue: 3 Dated: December 2001 Pages: 46-48
Editor(s)
Ellen Wilson Fielding
Date Published
December 2001
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article described a "walking group" started by the Northern District of Texas' probation office for females under probation supervision and involved in a women's issues group providing a non-traditional approach in supervising offenders with structure in an unstructured environment.
Abstract
For offenders who live in chaotic environments, it becomes a constant battle for many probation officers to stabilize them in their office only to send them back to their unstable, chaotic surroundings. The goal then is for officers to provide structure in an unstructured environment. This will enable offenders to learn survival skills when they are not with their probation officer. The Northern District of Texas, Garland Division conducted a women's issues group for female offenders that revealed that many female offenders were experiencing depression, lack of motivation, and being overweight. A "walking group" was created from the women involved in the women's issues group. They meet at a central location and walk once a week as a group. It is believed that if these women are walking as a group they will be able to improve not only their physical appearance, but their self-esteem and motivation as well. Without even being aware of it, these women are learning many life skills, such as teamwork and the ability to move forward in life. The walking group is an unstructured activity providing these women with structure. Offenders see that officers are human and care about their progress, thereby building trust. Probation officers see a program that has enhanced their ability to supervise these women in the community.