NCJ Number
130361
Journal
Justice Quarterly Volume: 8 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1991) Pages: 9-36
Date Published
1991
Length
28 pages
Annotation
Three samples of male inmates who were released during the 1970's from Massachusetts Department of Corrections facilities were studied to determine whether there was an identifiable intervention effect on recidivism rates. The three samples were used to construct and validate base expectancy tables of recidivism rates, to test the impact of prerelease participation on recidivism, and to test the impact of furlough program participation on recidivism.
Abstract
This examination, in addition to an analysis of 11-year trends in recidivism, revealed that furlough participants, both alone and followed by prerelease, appeared to have a significant positive impact on recidivism. Five stages in the furlough process are identified, and it is suggested that even random furlough decisions that do not reward good behavior are effective in lowering the risk of recidivism. The finding that reintegration reduces recidivism bears on policymaking in the areas of probation and risk assessment. Future research should focus on the systematic evaluation of furlough and prerelease programs. 7 tables, 4 figures 39 references, and 1 appendix (Author abstract modified)