CRJ303 Ashford University Correctional Functions and Goals
Correctional Functions and Goals
Prior to beginning work on this discussion, read Chapter 1 Correctional Aims and Correctional Systems from the textbook. Your initial post should be at least 250 words in length. Support your claims with examples from any required material or other scholarly resources and properly cite any references.
In this discussion,
Examine the pros and cons from four of six major correctional aims or goals of sentencing from your Stojkovic and Lovell (2019) textbook.
Compare and contrast at least one function of a historical correctional system with at least one function of a contemporary correctional system.
Describe correctional system functions that relate to (select at least one)
punishment,
rehabilitation, treatment, or
supervision
Pros and Cons of Four Major Correctional Aims
1. Retribution
Pros:
- Moral Satisfaction: Provides a sense of justice to victims and society by ensuring that offenders are punished for their crimes1.
- Deterrence: Can deter individuals from committing crimes due to fear of punishment1.
Cons:
- No Rehabilitation: Focuses solely on punishment without addressing the underlying causes of criminal behavior1.
- Potential for Excessive Punishment: Can lead to disproportionately harsh sentences that do not fit the crime1.
2. Deterrence
Pros:
- Crime Prevention: Aims to prevent crime by making an example of offenders, thereby discouraging others from committing similar offenses1.
- Specific Deterrence: Discourages the individual offender from reoffending1.
Cons:
- Effectiveness Varies: Not all individuals are deterred by the threat of punishment1.
- Moral and Ethical Concerns: Can lead to overly harsh penalties that may not be morally justified1.
3. Rehabilitation
Pros:
- Reduces Recidivism: Aims to change offenders’ behavior, reducing the likelihood of reoffending1.
- Social Benefits: Helps reintegrate offenders into society as productive members1.
Cons:
- Resource Intensive: Requires significant investment in programs and services1.
- Variable Success Rates: Not all offenders respond positively to rehabilitation efforts1.
4. Incapacitation
Pros:
- Public Safety: Removes dangerous individuals from society, thereby protecting the public1.
- Immediate Effect: Provides a quick solution to prevent further crimes by the offender1.
Cons:
- High Costs: Incarceration is expensive and places a financial burden on the state1.
- No Long-Term Solution: Does not address the root causes of criminal behavior, leading to potential reoffending upon release1.
Comparison of Historical and Contemporary Correctional Systems
Historical Correctional System: Eastern State Penitentiary
- Function: Focused on solitary confinement as a means of penitence and moral reform2.
- Approach: Believed that isolation would lead to reflection and repentance, thereby reforming the offender2.
Contemporary Correctional System: Modern Rehabilitation Programs
- Function: Emphasizes rehabilitation through educational programs, vocational training, and therapy3.
- Approach: Aims to address the underlying causes of criminal behavior and equip offenders with skills for reintegration into society3.
Comparison:
- Historical: Solitary confinement was intended to reform through isolation and reflection, but often led to severe psychological effects2.
- Contemporary: Rehabilitation programs focus on addressing specific needs and behaviors, aiming for long-term reintegration and reduced recidivism3.
Correctional System Functions Related to Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation:
- Educational Programs: Provide inmates with academic education to improve literacy and job prospects3.
- Vocational Training: Offers skills training in various trades to enhance employability upon release3.
- Therapeutic Interventions: Includes counseling and therapy to address mental health issues and substance abuse3.
These functions aim to transform offenders into law-abiding citizens, reducing the likelihood of reoffending and promoting public safety.
References
3: Brookings Institution 2: Wikipedia – History of United States prison systems 1: Sentencing Objectives