Rehabilitation and Correctional Privatization: Observations on the 19th Century Experience and Implications for Modern Corrections

• NCJ Number: 117260
• Journal: Federal Probation Quarterly Volume: 53 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1989) Pages: 43-52
• Author(s): A M Durham
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 10 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article reviews the effect on rehabilitation of privatizing correctional systems.

Abstract

In addition to solving overcrowding and cost problems, some advocates of privatization suggest that private corrections can enhance offender rehabilitation. Privatization efforts in the 19th century and the level of interest in rehabilitation reveal at least four types of rehabilitation-related difficulties to consider before large-scale correctional privatization efforts are implemented. These difficulties include the lack of interest in rehabilitation, the existence of substantial interest in correctional cost management, consequences of free market instability on program integrity, and the potential for inmate abuse produced by a profit-driven system. Whatever the likelihood of successfully implementing effective private rehabilitation programs, the value of private sector involvement in corrections will not likely be judged on this dimension alone. 53 references.