NCJ Number
84165
Date Published
1981
Length
223 pages
Annotation
This book focuses on the problems and dilemmas of probation work in Great Britain and suggests a more positive approach to probation work based on modern Marxist theory.
Abstract
It examines the four major tasks of the probation officer -- inquiry reports, probation supervision, prison welfare, and after-care work -- from both official and experienced-based perspectives in order to identify the reasons why probation workers lack confidence in the probation system. The radical social work debate of the last decade is reviewed, and its impact on probation services is identified. Rejecting radicalism as a basis for practice, the book instead balances the limitations of the job with its progressive potential and suggests some practical and specifically socialist strategies for dealing with daily problems. It is suggested that probation workers expose and resist State policies that discriminate against the poor, women, and minorities or which encourage detention. They should work cooperatively and collectively as one way of countering individualization and should encourage more equitable union policies. Chapter reference notes and an index are provided.