NCJ Number
194141
Date Published
October 2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the importance of pursuing the development and effective management of wholistic programs for Aboriginal inmates in New South Wales.
Abstract
A wholistic strategy in the management of Aboriginal inmates requires the development of culturally based rehabilitation theories and practices that will be integrated into counseling techniques and individual case management, both while the inmate is in custody and after release in the community. Currently, Aboriginal men and women are disproportionately represented in New South Wales prison populations; however, prison programming does not reflect the particular cognitive, cultural, and distinctive psychological needs associated with the backgrounds of Aborigines in New South Wales. An example of wholistic services is the program managed by the Yulawirri Nurai Indigenous Corporation, which cooperates with the Department of Corrective Services to develop strategies for breaking the recidivism cycle among Aboriginal people. One of its planning efforts involves the creation of a facility and program that will provide support for Aboriginal women through appropriate counseling that reflects Aboriginal spiritualism and healing. Aboriginal communities have distinctive healing methods handed down from previous generations. These methods must be at the core of rehabilitative services that Aboriginal people and institutions operate to meet the psychological and social needs of Aboriginal men and women whose behaviors have brought them in contact with the non-Aboriginal criminal justice system.