Evaluates a 16-hour intervention program designed to enhance psychological maturity among work release residents. Comparisons of the experimental group (N=22) with a non-participant control group (N=24) and with itself at pre- and posttesting revealed significant changes on a number of psychological measures favoring the experimental group.…

Examines the role of sport in prison life using data from a survey of 1,770 state prison inmates. Results indicate that few inmates participate in recreational activity and the activities that prisoner do participate in are generally passive rather than active. Findings question the usefulness of recreation in prison. (RJM)

Martinson's provocative article in Public Interest (Spring, 1974), denying efficacy in prisoner reform, singled out one of the uncertainties in correctional research. In their totality, these uncertainties embrace not only rehabilitative programs but also the method, theory, and organization of correctional research. To comprehend the status and…

The objective inmate classification system in use in California's prisons is described. Evaluation of 14,091 cases suggests that the system reduces the rate of increase in the incidence of serious prisoner misconduct. Empirical evaluation of the system is recommended, and implications for correctional programs and public policy are discussed. (SLD)

The Lancaster Visiting Cottage Program, located at the Massachusetts Correctional Institution at Lancaster, was implemented to allow children to visit overnight with their incarcerated mothers. It was hoped that the program would reunite mothers with their children, help them to maintain or re-establish close ties, and prepare mothers for their…

The most serious problem confronting correctional institutions is recidivism, the proneness of many criminals to continue a life of crime. A recent study estimated that 30 to 75 percent of the offenders leaving prison would return within 5 years. Data were collected by a literature review, correspondence with administrators of prerelease programs,…

This Research for Practice examines the Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) program at the South Idaho Correctional Institution. The program targets parole-violating inmates with substance abuse problems in an effort to reduce recidivism. Researchers conducted a 15-month evaluation of the program's process to identify strengths and…

This report presents the results of a process evaluation of the first year of the Lancaster Visiting Cottage Program, a program developed by the Massachusetts Department of Corrections to provide overnight visits between children and their incarcerated mothers. Chapter I provides an introduction to the report. Chapter II reviews the literature on…

A national study of vocational education in corrections was conducted to describe the current status of vocational education programs available to inmates in all types of correctional facilities. The study produced the following technical reports: a review and synthesis of the literature on correctional vocational education; a set of thirty-four…

This evaluation of the effectiveness of a computer assisted instructional program in basic literacy skills for inmates in a county jail covers the first year of the program. Instructional materials used were developed by Control Data Corporation for use on the PLATO system, and consisted of lessons in vocabulary, reading, spelling, arithmetic…

The deplorable condition of recreation services for women inmates was examined in a national study. The study had a twofold purpose: to ascertain the status of prison recreation services for women, and to develop a set of recreation guidelines applicable to state correctional institutions for female offenders. (JN)

Evaluated treatment model for physically or sexually abused female inmates (N=15). Hypothesized that during 16-week program, inmates would share an increase of self-esteem, perceive control over their lives, trust in others and experience a reduction of alienation from others. Compared these attitudes prior and subsequent to every 4 weeks during…

A controlled study of the impact of a juvenile education program on the recidivism rates of juveniles was performed. The program involved introducing the juveniles to prison life. Findings showed that youths categorized as more delinquent were affected differently by program attendance compared to youths categorized as less delinquent. (Author/LMO)

Argues that process evaluation is needed to validate prison-based substance abuse treatment effectiveness. Five groups--inmates, treatment staff, prison staff, prison administration, and the parole board--should be a part of this process evaluation. Discusses these five groups relative to three stages of development of substance abuse treatment in…

Describes the development of a community forensic psychology service during its first 10 years of service. Service emphasizes cooperation among psychologists, probation officers, and others in establishing alternatives to custody for sex offenders, shoplifters, drug and alcohol abusers, and young criminals. Discusses theoretical orientation of the…