NCJ Number
209247
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 33 Issue: 2 Dated: March/April 2005 Pages: 113-118
Date Published
March 2005
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study examined whether type of criminal justice occupation influences selection of boot camp components.
Abstract
It has been stereotypically assumed that when criminal justice professionals select boot camp components that law enforcement professionals will favor punishment goals while probation and parole professionals will favor reform goals. The current study tested this assumption through a mailed questionnaire to 670 Missouri sheriffs, prosecutors, selected prison administrators, probation/parole staff, all public defenders, selected legislatures, and judges throughout Missouri. A total of 350 respondents who returned completed questionnaires ranked potential boot camp goals and programs on a Likert-type preferences scale. Results of statistical analyses indicated that occupation type did not predict program choices among the respondents. Indeed, a preference for “reform” goals and programs over “punishment” goals was observed for all occupations. The findings suggest an overall criminal justice shift from the early punishment style of boot camps to a more reform minded version of boot camps. Correctional agencies considering revamping or building new boot camp programs should consider using these results to guide their programmatic choices. Tables, references