NCJ Number
129847
Date Published
1991
Length
212 pages
Annotation
This study examines the effect of changes in the criminal justice system and society in general upon the probation service in England.
Abstract
The book first examines the history of the probation service and the changes that prompted its expansion. Core themes in this historical review are the rise of the service, the expectations placed upon it, and the functions of the probation service within the criminal justice system. The rising occupational aspirations of probation officers are also charted. The discussion then turns to more contemporary shifts that have led to changes in the traditional role of the service. Three levels of change are considered: "macro" changes rooted in conceptions of crime, "mezzo" or organizational level changes, and "micro" changes in the role and type of probation personnel and probation clients. The interpretation and implementation of policy changes are then examined for one probation agency. The analysis focuses on a major policy initiative that occurred during the research, difficulties in its implementation, and the beliefs and reactions of staff to the proposed changes and policymaking in general. The remainder of the discussion addresses the beliefs and actions of staff including the value of probation work, the autonomy and accountability of work in relation to the organization, and the changing staff roles. Appended description of the research design, chapter notes, a 312-item bibliography, and a subject index