Inmate Classification as a Transaction

• NCJ Number: 76393
• Journal: Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 8 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1981) Pages: 3-14
• Author(s): H Toch
• Date Published: 1981
• Length: 12 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Article adapted from a presentation at the annual convention of the American Psychological Association, Montreal, Canada, September 1, 1980.

Annotation

Problems with inmate classification systems as they currently exist in prisons are discussed, suggestions for improving the systems are reviewed, and the issue of confidentiality in the classification system is considered.

Abstract

A problem with classification in prisons is that of disjunctures between recommendations based on classification data and the process whereby inmate assignments are made. This problem is aggravated by overcrowding, which limits differential assignment to extreme cases, such as inmates who have difficulty surviving. Forging classification-assignment links presupposes communication among staff who successively deal with each inmate; classification recommendations must also be program-relevant and flexibly updated to take adjustment data into account. Nonclassification staff and inmates must have input into classification decisions; if possible, this input should be collaborative. Information exchange among staff involves a concern with confidentiality, they run the risk of having recommendations ignored or circumvented. They also run this risk if they view classification as an autonomous process or function. Notes and nine references are included. (Author abstract modified)