Correctional Administration: Integrating Theory and Practice

Correctional administration is the management of prisons, jails, and other correctional facilities. It is a complex and challenging field that requires a deep understanding of both theory and practice.

Correctional Administration: Integrating Theory and Practice (2-downloads)

by Richard P. Seiter

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Language	:	English
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History of Corrections

The history of corrections can be traced back to the early days of civilization. In ancient Greece, prisoners were often held in dungeons or other underground cells. In ancient Rome, prisoners were often enslaved or forced to fight in gladiatorial contests.

The modern era of corrections began in the 18th century with the development of the penitentiary system. The penitentiary system was based on the idea of isolating prisoners from society and providing them with an opportunity to repent for their crimes. The first penitentiary in the United States was opened in Philadelphia in 1790.

Types of Correctional Facilities

There are a variety of different types of correctional facilities, each with its own unique purpose and population.

• Prisons are long-term facilities that house inmates who have been convicted of serious crimes.
• Jails are short-term facilities that house inmates who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or sentencing.
• Boot camps are military-style facilities that provide intensive training and discipline for young offenders.
• Halfway houses are community-based facilities that provide housing and support for offenders who are transitioning back into society.

Challenges Facing Correctional Administrators

Correctional administrators face a number of challenges, including:

• Overcrowding: Prisons and jails are often overcrowded, which can lead to a number of problems, including violence, disease, and mental health issues.
• Recidivism: Many offenders return to prison after being released. This is a major problem, as it costs taxpayers money and puts communities at risk.
• Staffing shortages: Correctional facilities are often understaffed, which can lead to burnout and low morale among staff.
• Budget cuts: Correctional budgets are often cut, which can lead to a reduction in services and programs for inmates.

Integrating Theory and Practice

Correctional administrators need to be able to integrate theory and practice in order to effectively manage correctional facilities. Theory can provide administrators with a framework for understanding the complex issues facing corrections. Practice can provide administrators with the tools and techniques needed to implement effective policies and programs.

There are a number of different theoretical perspectives that can be applied to corrections. Some of the most common theories include:

• The classical theory views crime as a rational choice made by individuals who weigh the costs and benefits of committing a crime.
• The positivist theory views crime as a product of biological, psychological, and social factors.
• The labeling theory views crime as a product of social interaction and labeling.

Correctional administrators need to be able to draw on these and other theories to develop effective policies and programs. They also need to be able to use research to evaluate the effectiveness of their programs.

Resources for Further Learning

There are a number of resources available for those who want to learn more about correctional administration. These resources include:

• The American Correctional Association: The ACA is a professional organization that provides training and resources for correctional administrators.
• The National Institute of Corrections: The NIC is a federal agency that provides training and technical assistance to correctional agencies.
• The Correctional Education Association: The CEA is a professional organization that provides training and resources for correctional educators.

In addition to these resources, there are a number of academic journals and books that can provide valuable information about correctional administration.

Correctional Administration: Integrating Theory and Practice (2-downloads)

by Richard P. Seiter

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	27158 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	464 pages

FREE