NCJ Number
210852
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 67 Issue: 5 Dated: August 2005 Pages: 28-31
Date Published
August 2005
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article outlines the content of a 44-hour training program entitled, Inmate Behavior Management.
Abstract
The training program is based on the premise that managing inmate behavior is the core of jail operations. One of the elements of inmate behavior management is the assessment of the risk and needs of each inmate upon his/her arrival at the jail, followed by periodic assessments during the jail stay to ensure that information is accurate and current. A second element of inmate behavior management is assignment to housing based on security risk, legal requirements, and service needs. A third element is the meeting of inmates' physical, safety, and social needs. Failure to meet these needs can stimulate defiant and aggressive behavior. A fourth element in managing inmate behavior is defining and conveying expectations for behavior through formal and informal methods of clarifying and holding inmates accountable for behavioral expectations. Other elements of inmate behavior management are supervision through regular interaction with inmates and keeping inmates productively occupied. The implementation of a behavior-management plan includes setting goals for improving inmate behavior; developing a method to measure goal achievement; having clear directives in the form of written policies and procedures; ensuring adequate staffing levels; conducting staff training; monitoring staff to ensure compliance with procedures; documenting all behavior-management activities; and developing a communication system among staff regarding matters that affect inmate behavior management.