Probationers Speak - Analysis of the Probationers' Experiences and Attitudes

• NCJ Number: 100598
• Journal: Federal Probation Volume: 44 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1985) Pages: 67-75
• Author(s): G F Allen
• Date Published: 1985
• Length: 9 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: An earlier version of this article was presented at the 36th annual meeting of the American Society of Criminology, Cincinnati, Ohio, November 7-11, 1984

Annotation

Using rehabilitation, deterrence, desert, and justice models as points of reference, this study examined the experiences and attitudes of 87 Federal probationers who had completed probation towards probation practices and principles.

Abstract

Results of semistructured interviews conducted over 3 months beginning April 1983 indicate that 63.2 percent of probationers supported the rehabilitation position, 78.2 percent supported deterrence, 60.9 percent supported desert, and 41.3 percent supported the justice model. Probationers viewed judges' roles as punishing and probation officers' roles as supportive and assisting. Most probationers had no suggestions for improving the system, but those who did most often suggested that there be lower caseloads per officer, increased advocacy and employment assistance, more frequent and closer contact between officer and probationer, and incentives and rewards for compliance with terms of probation. Results suggest that probationers view probation in a variety of ways and are not as concerned about the diffusion of goals of corrections as are theoreticians. Data also suggest that probation officers must respond to a variety of situations and needs, and that the psychodynamics of offenders may require an assistance-control approach. 45 references.