NCJ Number
164902
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 47 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1996) Pages: 64-67
Date Published
1996
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the evolution of the prison in Ringe, Denmark, a small closed prison for young men, women, and married couples who are serving sentences of up to 14 years.
Abstract
The philosophy that underlies the prison's work is that the prison achieves the highest possible degree of security by combining physical security -- a high wall around the prison along with electrical surveillance -- with inner security. Inner security is achieved through a high level of activity in the prison in the form of training, many leisure activities, targeted work on the behavior of the inmates, and particularly mutual trust and respect between staff and inmates. The behavior of the inmates is affected by teaching programs on cognitive skills devised by Elisabeth Fabiano and Frank Poporino. These educational programmers have not only been translated in Danish but also modified to fit Danish culture by incorporating examples from Danish daily life. Teaching is also customized to suit the requirements and interests of the particular group. The inmates are provided the means with which they can manage their own problems.