NCJ Number
106383
Date Published
1987
Length
202 pages
Annotation
This book explains the 'justice' model of corrections, provides examples of its translation into practice in Great Britain and the United States, and assesses whether it has been ineffectually applied or is flawed in principle.
Abstract
The 'justice' model of corrections is based on the concept that the criminal justice system should not be concerned with offender rehabilitation but should limit itself to the fair administration of punishments appropriate to the severity of the crime committed. The justice model has been implemented in Great Britain and the United States through determinate sentencing laws, sentencing guidelines, and appeal court judgments. A detailed review of the model's impact on blacks, women, unemployed persons, and juveniles indicates that it has done nothing to reduce discrimination in the penal system. The model apparently coincides with repressive aims and is thus a questionable model for a democratic society. In finding flaws in the justice model, however, the study does not embrace the medical model for corrections but rather suggests the need for a fresh look at needed correctional reforms. 231-item bibliography and subject index. (Publisher summary modified)