NCJ Number
82485
Date Published
1980
Length
80 pages
Annotation
The evaluation research design for prerelease centers at facilities of the New York State Department of Correctional Services is described.
Abstract
A multiple pre-post test design was selected for the evaluation of prerelease centers. The major part of the design is the administration of a pre-post test questionnaire to inmates in eight facilities. All inmates eligible for orientation during the target month will take the pretest, possibly as part of the orientation to prerelease. During the 3 months, records will be kept on participation in prerelease programs and disciplinary reports in the facility. At the end of the 3-month prerelease period, these same inmates will take a posttest before release. After 6 months on parole, a questionnaire will be sent to the parole oficers of the participants to inquire about parole adjustment. An index of 'success' will be established for each participant, which will be a composite of attitude change, knowledge acquisition, and parole adjustment. Hypotheses on the influences of alienation, locus of control, and various demographic characteristics will be tested through statistical techniques such as partial and multiple correlational methods. A separate part of the research design is a needs assessment which considers the needs of inmates as they approach the prerelease eligibility period. Forms to be used in the evaluation are presented, and 79 footnotes are listed. (Author summary modified)