NCJ Number
110581
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 50 Issue: 2 Dated: (April 1988) Pages: 20,22,46
Date Published
1988
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Quality of life in a correctional facility can be enhanced by instilling respect for the rights of others; ensuring the just application of rules and regulation; respecting lawful and responsible relationships; and providing an unbiased, relaxed atmosphere pervaded by hope.
Abstract
Inmates are more likely to behave responsibly when they observe and experience the staff performing their duties justly and respectfully. Unless a correctional facility is made safe for inmates, fear and violence will prevail, stimulating survival behaviors that undermine positive development among inmates. Institutional work, recreation, education, treatment, and other activities must be designed to meet inmate needs and structure responsible behaviors. It is vital that administrators and line staff believe that what they do in managing inmates and their activities as well as the overall institutional environment can provide positive change in the inmates. Otherwise, cynicism and indifference pervade staff attitudes, which in turn foster hopelessness in the inmates. Such hopelessness impedes inmates' motivation to work on modifying their behaviors and attitudes.