Media and Correctional Administrators - The Time for Mutual Cooperation and Understanding Has Come

• NCJ Number: 105024
• Author(s): H L Marsh
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 4 pages
• Corporate Author: Sam Houston State University
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Research Bulletin, V 2, N 4, 1986

Annotation

This paper examines the volatile relationship between the media and correctional administrators and suggests ways in which the relationship can be improved.

Abstract

Correctional administrators frequently fail to cooperate with the media because they feel that the media has turned the public against corrections. Research has shown that the public is generally critical of correctional agencies and personnel, and that the media's influence is to reinforce perceptions already held by the public. In order to correct the public's misconstrued perception of correctional systems, it is suggested that administrators be open and honest and develop a direct channel of communication with the media and the public. The public needs to become aware of corrections' problems and the policies that will be implemented to correct them. Information specialists trained and skilled to deal with the media and a good public relations program designed to educate the public, along with mutual cooperation and understanding between correctional administrators and the media, are recommended. 32 references.