NCJ Number
72179
Date Published
1976
Length
61 pages
Annotation
This study examines vocational education programs in Delaware Correctional Institutions and effect on the recidivism rate. Other variables studied included timing of the training, the age of the individual at the time of training, and the benefits of training to third-time recidivists.
Abstract
The randomly selected study group was divided into 4 groups of approximately 50 inmates each. The two experimental groups were composed of those who received training between 1968 and 1971 and those who received vocational training after 1971 (to account for program modifications implemented in 1971.) The two control groups included individuals who did not receive vocational training in the corresponding periods. Vocational training information was secured through a review of education records, and related data was obtained through the Division of Pardon and Parole. The data were analyzed by means of a multiple regression equation. Of the 10 variables in the multiple regression equation, the significant predictors were previous number of sentences, months prior to release when the training was completed, and age. Previous number of sentences accounted for more than 86 percent of the weighted predictability. The rate of recidivism for inmates having received vocational training during incarceration was significantly lower than that of inmate controls. The mean length of time from release to return for recidivist inmates having received vocational training was significantly longer than those of control inmates, In addition, recidivism was significantly higher for those who received vocational training within 1.5 years prior to release than for those who received vocational training more than 1.5 years prior to release. The mean length of time from release to return was not significantly higher for these groups. Neither the recidivism rate nor the mean length of time from release to return was significantly different between the two age groups (18 to 30 or 31 and older) of the trained inmates. Those who had recidivated less than three times had a longer mean length of time between release and return. It was concluded that if educational funds were limited, those available should be used to train the offender with less than three previous sentences. Inasmuch as there was minimal difference in mean release time between the two study groups, educational opportunities should be made available to inmates at least 3 years prior to release. A work-release program to capstone formal instruction would ease the transition from incarceration to freedom. Eighteen references, survey instruments, and tabular data are appended. (Author abstract modified)