Odyssey in Search of Religious Standards (From State of Corrections: Proceedings of ACA Annual Conferences, 1989, P 234-239, 1990, Ann Dargis, ed. -- See NCJ-122583)

• NCJ Number: 122618
• Author(s): B H Siekman
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 6 pages
• Sale Source: American Correctional Association
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This analysis of the American Correctional Association's development of religious standards for correctional facilities concludes that corrections standards are useful both administratively and educationally and are worth the paperwork involved.

Abstract

A lack of religious standards for corrections can result in problems ranging from religious prejudice in institutions to the denial of constitutional rights. The author became chairperson of the American Correctional Chaplains Association (ACCA) in 1985, expecting that it would take a year to develop religious standards for corrections. However, the project took four years and a tremendous amount of effort. The experience showed that the process for establishing standards should have as an initial action the affirmation of a statement of the purpose of corrections. In addition, the standards should enhance or reflect that purpose or become an agent of change for that purpose. In addition, affiliates of the American Correctional Association should be extensively involved in the establishment of standards related to their areas. Furthermore, limiting the number of standards should not be overemphasized.