NCJ Number
70089
Date Published
1970
Length
40 pages
Annotation
This report identifies research needs in the field of criminal corrections programs and criminal justice and proposes establishment of an ongoing institute of criminal justice research at the University of Michigan.
Abstract
The needs were identified at an interdepartmental seminar held in 1969-1970. Seminar participants found that ILECJ's research plan identified numerous high priority areas for research. Nevertheless, the plan omitted four important subjects: (1) youthful offenders and youth programs, (2) community treatment programs, (3) the possibility of eliminating criminal sanctions for certain conduct, and (4) research on research techniques and methods for increasing policymakers' responsiveness to research implications. Research on juvenile justice should focus on the juvenile court system, juvenile delinquency prevention, rehabilitation, predictions about forms of conduct, and career patterns. Research on community training programs should focus on probation, residential programs, group programs in the community, convicted persons' rights, and flexibility in programming. Research on alternatives to the criminal process should examine stigmatization, alternative interventions, and the legislative process. Priority areas for ILECJ funding should include youth crime, research to improve research and the implementation of innovations, and increasing the numbers of people involved in crime research. ILECJ should also work closely with LEAA staff, with state crime commissions, and with other agencies handling disbursal of LEAA funds. ILECJ should also integrate research into daily operations of correctional programs. The proposed research institute at the University of Michigan would be involved in research, training, and community information provision. The funding applications will be completed by late summer, 1970. A list of seminar participants is appended.