NCJ Number
230936
Date Published
2010
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This chapter summarizes arguments from previous chapters, identifying common features and themes as well tensions and problems, so as to provide guidance that might inform a creative and effective corrections practice in the United Kingdom.
Abstract
One theme evident in the chapters is that a centralized, "top-down" approach to designing and implementing corrections rehabilitative approaches tends to stifle local creativity, innovation, and flexibility in tailoring rehabilitation to diverse local offender populations and the socioeconomic contexts in which they live. Another theme pertains to the use of the findings of desistance research (identification of factors that are related to offenders stopping their criminal behavior) as a means of designing rehabilitative approaches that facilitate strengthening these factors. Chapters also suggest that involving offenders as active agents in their own change provides them with the experience of building on their existing strengths while motivating them to assume personal control of their behaviors and life goals. Another theme of some of the chapters is that mainstream, standardized approaches to rehabilitation tend to ignore the needs of minority groups. Specialized services based on needs assessments and individual experiences must inform treatment techniques and the focus of resources. The chapters not only emphasize the importance of creating a correctional environment of creativity, innovation, flexibility, and focus on the distinctive and individualized experiences of offenders, but also on the importance of evidence-based practice. This means that every effort theorized to improve practice must be subjected to evaluation research that analyzes how practice is implemented and whether or not it produces the intended outcomes. 3 notes and 27 references