Metacorrection - State of the Art (From Problems, Thoughts, and Processes in Criminal Justice Administration, 1969, P 1-10, Alvin W Cohn, ed. See NCJ-84895)

• NCJ Number: 84896
• Author(s): A W Cohn
• Date Published: 1969
• Length: 10 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Available on microfiche as NCJ-84895

Annotation

The wide variety of correctional services, practices, and ideologies in place suggests that the term 'metacorrection' aptly depicts the current state of corrections, suggesting that the application of the scientific process and the discarding of ritualism are required to improve corrections effectiveness.

Abstract

Because there is no agreement on what correctional goals are or ought to be, corrections is perceived as operating in a confused, purposeless manner, causing undue suffering for the clients of the system. Scientific activity in corrections does occur, but the extent to which the results are shared, understood, and implemented by correctional authorities is minimal. Most of the change in corrections are self-serving organizational revisions that do little to impact the clients of corrections. If meaningful change is to occur, the scientific process must be rigorously applied through the use of continuing evaluation and the proper use of evaluation findings. Rethinking of existing standards for manpower needs and training will be required. Similarly, the relationships of correctional organizations and systems to existing power structures and vested interests will need intensive examination and change. To keep the offender on the street (except in those instances where a physical threat truly exists) will require an examination of 'alternatives to community-based service' instead of 'alternatives to incarceration.' With the implementation of such a philosophy, savings in money and personnel could be expected.