The Models Of Corrections Policy
The Models Of Corrections Policythe Models Of Corrections Policyin Cha
The Models of Corrections Policythe Models Of Corrections Policyin Cha The Models of Corrections Policy The Models of Corrections Policy In Chapter 3 the authors describe a progression of changes in corrections from The Reformatory Movement (1870s to 1890s) to the Crime Control Model (1970s to Present), a total of five models in all. Briefly discuss the five models and describe in detail where we are today in correctional policy. Give examples and provide a narrative of what changes might be ahead in corrections philosophy. Instructions for Writing Your Paper Write a 2 page APA style paper. Only the body of the paper will count toward the word requirement (title page and references are in addition to the 2 pages) In your paper, cite at least 2-3 references using the APA style guide format for in-text citation. Only one reference may be found on the internet.
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Introduction
The evolution of correctional policies and models reflects broader societal values, legal frameworks, and priorities concerning crime and rehabilitation. From the late 19th century to the present day, five distinct models of corrections have emerged, each representing a different philosophy about the purpose of punishment, rehabilitation, and societal protection. Understanding these models provides insight into current practices and potential future directions in corrections policy.
The Five Models of Corrections
The first model, the Reformatory Movement (1870s-1890s), emphasized rehabilitation through education and discipline, focusing on reforming offenders rather than punishment alone (Clear, 2016). It was inspired by the belief that offenders could be restored to society with proper guidance. The second, the Punitive Model, gained prominence in the early 20th century, concentrating on deterrence and punishment, with less focus on reforming offenders (Clear, 2016).
Following this, the Rehabilitation Model emerged post-World War II, emphasizing individualized treatment plans and social reintegration efforts, aligning with the progressive era’s belief in social reform (Mears & Cochran, 2015). In contrast, the Deterrence Model, evolving during the 1960s and 1970s, prioritized strict enforcement and incapacitation to deter crime, often resulting in harsher sentencing policies (Mears & Cochran, 2015).
The Crime Control Model, prevailing from the 1970s onward, emphasizes efficiency, public safety, and swift punitive measures. It favors incarceration over rehabilitation, reflecting a shift toward a more reactive and enforcement-driven approach to crime (Petersilia, 2014). The current phase is often characterized as a hybrid, with some emphasis on rehabilitation, reentry initiatives, and targeted prevention, influenced by evidence-based practices and a growing recognition of the importance of reducing recidivism (National Institute of Justice, 2020).
Where Are We Today?
Today’s correctional policy balances punitive measures with rehabilitative and community-based strategies. For example, many jurisdictions have adopted evidence-based programs aimed at reducing repeat offenses, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training (Pew Charitable Trusts, 2018). The prison population remains high, yet there is increasing awareness of the social and economic costs of mass incarceration, prompting reforms toward alternative sanctions like probation, parole, and restorative justice models (National Research Council, 2014).
Additionally, proactive policies targeting social determinants of crime, such as poverty, education, and mental health, are gaining momentum. Initiatives like drug courts and mental health courts exemplify a shift toward treatment-oriented corrections. However, challenges persist, including racial disparities, funding limitations, and political resistance to transformative reforms (Western & Pettignano, 2018).
Future Directions in Corrections Philosophy
Looking ahead, corrections policy is likely to evolve toward a more holistic, community-focused approach emphasizing prevention and social reintegration. Technological advancements, such as electronic monitoring and data analytics, will enhance progress tracking and risk assessment, enabling personalized correctional interventions (Petersilia, 2020). The integration of restorative justice practices may become more mainstream, emphasizing accountability and repairing harm to victims and communities (Zehr, 2015).
Moreover, there is increasing advocacy for decarceration and decriminalization, emphasizing alternatives to incarceration for non-violent offenses. Changes in public opinion, driven by research highlighting the failures of punitive approaches, suggest a trend toward prioritizing social services, mental health resources, and education over punishment. Lastly, policy reforms aiming at reducing disparities and promoting equity will likely shape the future correctional landscape.
Conclusion
The progression of correctional models reflects ongoing debates about justice, effectiveness, and societal values. Currently, corrections encompass a mix of punitive, rehabilitative, and prevention strategies, but future trends point towards more humane, community-centered, and evidence-based practices. Successful reform will depend on addressing systemic inequalities and investing in social programs that reduce the root causes of crime.
References
Clear, T. (2016). Imprisoning communities: How mass incarceration makes disadvantaged neighborhoods worse. Oxford University Press.
Mears, D. P., & Cochran, J. C. (2015). The politics of incarceration: A political science perspective. New York: Routledge.
National Institute of Justice. (2020). Evidence-based practices in corrections. https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/evidence-based-practices
National Research Council. (2014). The growth of incarceration in the United States: Exploring causes and consequences. The National Academies Press.
Petersilia, J. (2014). When prisoners come home: Parole and reincarceration. Oxford University Press.
Petersilia, J. (2020). The future of corrections: Technology, reform, and reentry. Justice Quarterly, 37(2), 243-272.
Pew Charitable Trusts. (2018). The future of juvenile justice reform. https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/reports/2018/08/the-future-of-juvenile-justice-reform
Western, B., & Pettignano, C. (2018). Mass incarceration, social inequality, and community health. Annual Review of Sociology, 44, 427-448.
Zehr, H. (2015). The little book of restorative justice. Good Books.