Rehabilitation That Works: Improving and Expanding Shock Incarceration and Similar Programs in New York State: A Report of the Visiting Committee of the Correctional Association of New York

• NCJ Number: 162251
• Author(s): R. Brown
• Date Published: 1996
• Length: 73 pages
• Sale Source: Correctional Assoc of New York; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Program/Project Evaluation
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Shock incarceration is strongly supported in New York State because of its intensive emphasis on both discipline and therapy and its cost-effectiveness.

Abstract

In 6 months, shock incarceration provides a far better chance of rehabilitation than a custodial sentence and also saves taxpayers money. Shock incarceration effectively combines the traditional boot camp approach with a therapeutic community in which the focus is on changing attitudes and building better relationships with individuals and society. Recognizing that program participants have committed crimes, shock incarceration officials use boot camp discipline not simply to punish but to help in the rehabilitation process. Military drills and therapy components of shock incarceration emphasize group cooperation but are also sometimes highly directive and confrontational. Shock incarceration graduates indicate the program's aggressiveness has helped them acquire self-discipline. The effectiveness of shock incarceration is reflected in recidivism rates that are 4 to 11 percent better than comparison groups. A detailed description of New York's shock incarceration program is provided, and recommendations to improve the program are offered.