NCJ Number
167405
Journal
Justice Report Volume: 12 Issue: 1 Dated: (1996) Pages: 8-11
Date Published
1996
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The way in which the correctional system is managed has a significant impact on the incarceration rate, and the way in which the correctional system relates to offenders has a direct bearing on public safety.
Abstract
The development of a professional approach to corrections is emphasized, one that does not necessarily focus on incarceration. In addition, the correctional system needs an appropriate mission statement and values to convey the message that one does not have to resort to criminality and to avoid violating the fundamental rights of offenders. Not having a well-directed mission means investments in correctional activities may support results that do not contribute to the public good. Values in correctional institutions need to be comparable to values in society so that behaviors learned in prison do not contradict fundamental values in society. The need to consider future challenges facing the field of corrections and to foster collaboration, cooperation, and information sharing in corrections management is discussed.