NCJ Number
207950
Journal
Corrections Compendium Volume: 29 Issue: 6 Dated: November/December 2004 Pages: 6-8,36
Date Published
November 2004
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the creation and contents of the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) handbook for families and friends of inmates.
Abstract
Addressing the needs of family members and friends of inmates has been largely overlooked by correctional agencies around the country. As the result of an alliance between Pennsylvania State University-Fayette, Slippery Rock University, and the Pennsylvania DOC, a handbook was designed and created for the express purpose of informing the public about procedures governing their interactions with correctional facilities. The content of the handbook focuses on two areas: an educational section designed to inform readers about correctional processes and a section on the emotional and social needs of inmates’ families and friends. General rules and regulations governing visitations, identification, and security are included, in addition to other concerns ranging from transportation to mail privileges to dealing with stress and financial concerns. The handbook serves as a model for other correctional agencies interested in catering to the needs and concerns of inmate’s families and friends; however, no assessment has been conducted of the public’s reaction to the handbook. References