NCJ Number
74794
Date Published
1978
Length
117 pages
Annotation
This third report in a series from a study of metropolitan correctional centers (MCC) continues the analysis of the New York City MCC begun in the second report and integrates the data from the New York and Chicago MCCs, along with providing data from other sources.
Abstract
MCCs are a new form of correctional institution for the United States Bureau of Prisons. They are inner city institutions designed for pretrial and presentencing defendants, detainees from the immigration and naturalization service, persons held on writs, and those serving short sentences. By reducing traditional symbols of incarceration, such as bars, and diminishing the regimentation of institutional life, the MCC intends to provide an environment which serves the legal and moral rights of residents. The aims of the overall study are to increase knowledge about the ways in which correctional environments affect inmate behavior; to assess specific features of MCCs which affect behavior, identify areas needing change, and offer recommendations for making changes; and to provide guidelines for future design of similar institutions. Interviews and observations indicated that the New York MCC affords adequate privacy for inmates and has low levels of theft, assault, and physical damage. Problems include monotony resulting from lack of variety of environment and activities, inadequate staff size, and difficulties resulting from the use of the facility for other than intended purposes. Recommendations are offered in the areas of unit design, institutional facilities, and program considerations for future MCCs. Study instruments are appended, and tabular data and a list of 10 references are provided.