NCJ Number
93202
Date Published
Unknown
Length
9 pages
Annotation
In an effort to improve its recreation system, the Sacramento County Jail initiated the Positive Indirect Recreation Approach (PIRA) to meet inmate recreational needs through responsive and comprehensive recreation planning, programming, and evaluation.
Abstract
The PIRA offers the inmate a multitude of options in recreation activities through carefully monitored and comprehensively structured recreational programming systems dynamics. Inmate recreational needs are determined through an inmate measurement assessment tool, and recreational equipment purchasing is targeted to meet identified needs. The types of programs implemented also match the needs exposed in the assessment tool analysis. Need and program matchups are coordinated by the recreation staff through group and individual recreational counseling, coaching, direction, and physical fitness instruction. The inmate has the option of selecting the types of activities that will best meet his/her physiological and psychological needs. The overall goal of the PIRA is to reduce inmate stress, depression, frustration, and idleness. The recreation staff continually seeks inmate feedback on the recreation activities, and the use of each program is monitored. A chart lists the steps in PIRA planning and implementation.