NCJ Number
85682
Date Published
1982
Length
25 pages
Annotation
Following a review of key ideas in the holistic orientation to offender rehabilitation, this chapter discusses how holistic principles can be implemented in program operation, and diagnostic and treatment strategies are outlined.
Abstract
Holistic theory emphasizes the organic and functional interrelationship between parts and wholes. On offender rehabilitation, an holistic approach views offenders as whole persons who seek a fulfilling meaning for their lives just as do other persons. Particular aspects of offender behavior are examined in relation to total behavior. The holistic focus on offender behavior is multidimensional, as it draws on scientific knowledge from the fields of biochemistry, physiology, growth psychology, and social education. Understanding of offender behavior can be improved by analyzing factors of early childhood experience that may have contributed to current behavior. Offender behavior should also be viewed as a failure to achieve normal or optimum levels of human functioning. Given the current level of scientific knowledge about human behavior, a correctional approach to offender behavior is more logical than a punitive approach. Rehabilitation programs based in the holistic perspective should use therapeutic communities and team treatment. Further, multidimensional diagnostic studies should be conducted, and an appropriate treatment-rehabilitation program should be planned and completed for each offender. Treatment programs should be undergirded by research and development that provides evaluation and improvement. The bases of the holistic approach have been successfully applied in a number of correctional settings. Seventeen references are listed.