NCJ Number
86054
Journal
Journal of Offender Counseling Services and Rehabilitation Volume: 6 Issue: 1 and 2 Dated: (Fall/Winter 1981) Pages: 103-110
Date Published
1982
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This paper evaluates selected correctional programs of the Attica Correctional Facility at Attica, N.Y., in order to determine the utility of social programs as a means of institutional control. It is suggested that there are many benefits to the offender population and to the prison staff when a program lends itself to stabilizing the environment. A total of 107 inmates were surveyed. Data were recorded for a 1-year period. Information included variables such as age, ethnicity, education, and sentence length. Also recorded were the number of privileges extended to the sample inmates, such as family reunions and picnics, as well as the number and types of infractions adjudicated by the prison administration. The study provided no data to substantiate the hypothesis that a positive relationship exists between various social programs by Attica and a decrease in the frequency of misbehavior. Thus, the management at Attica and other similar facilities should reassess their perceptions and expectations of some social programs. Programs evaluated in this study do not appear to be successful as a means of social control or as a means of reintegration of the offender population. Seven references are provided.