NCJ Number
185013
Date Published
2001
Length
762 pages
Annotation
This text provides a synopsis of American corrections, including the use of incarceration, probation, and parole.
Abstract
Jails and prisons are distinguished and their functions described. Inmate rights are highlighted, as well as a discussion of key issues in corrections: privatization, architecture, HIV/AIDS, and correctional reforms. There is a detailed description of the content and purposes of presentence investigation reports. A comprehensive discussion of juvenile corrections includes intermediate punishment alternatives; the characteristics of delinquent offenders; the juvenile justice system; the constitutional rights of juveniles; and waivers, transfers, and certifications. One chapter discusses offender classification, sentencing systems, and sentencing issues; and a chapter on jails addresses history, functions, and types of jail inmates. Jail administration is considered in another chapter, with attention to correctional officer training, inmate supervision, and jail reforms. A chapter on prisons and prisoners encompasses both State and Federal prison systems, prison culture, risk assessment, inmate classification, and types of prisons and their functions. Other chapters address corrections administration and the privatization of prisons, "jailhouse lawyers" and inmate rights, diversion and probation, parole, correctional officer selection and training, and women and corrections. Each chapter contains tables and figures, key terms, review questions, and suggested readings. Glossary; subject, name, and case indexes; and 1,000 references