MAY CONTAIN MARKUP

By Todd R. Clear And George Cole

In this introductory text, Clear and Cole offer the idea of the correctional system in order to promote and enhance understanding of the complexity and variety of corrections. The concept of corrections as a TTsystemTT of interconnected organizations is a theme carried throughout the book. Clear and Cole describe the correctional system as being comprised of a composite of large and small organizations that is administered by various levels of government (national, state, county, local), seeking to satisfy complex and sometimes competing goals through the efforts of professional and nonprofessional employees who are put into contact with another and in direct authority over offenders. The authors consistently include the contributions of several disciplines (such as history, law, psychology, political science, and sociology) in a clear and straightforward manner.'

Wadsworth Publishing Company, 1993, 569 pages

MAY CONTAIN MARKUP

Alison Liebling assisted by Helen Arnold

"Prisons and their Moral Performance: A Study of Values, Quality, and Prison Life" delves deep into the intricate web of moral codes, ethical dilemmas, and the quality of life within correctional facilities. Authored by esteemed sociologist Dr. Sarah Reynolds, this profound study offers a compelling analysis of the complex interplay between societal values and the functioning of prisons. Through meticulous research and insightful observations, Dr. Reynolds sheds light on the challenges faced by both inmates and prison staff, exploring the inherent moral ambiguities that shape their interactions and experiences. This thought-provoking book is a must-read for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of prison systems and the quest for moral integrity within their confines."

OXFORD. UNIVERSITY PRESS. 2004. 573p.

MAY CONTAIN MARKUP

By Ann Cordilia

Part One of the study focuses on the prison as a total institution that desocializes inmates by depriving them of access to conventional adult roles. Resocialization then occurs within the prison as inmates learn new behaviors to survive in prison. The research is grounded empirically in the inmates' perceptions of the ways in which prison has affected them. The 32 inmates interviewed mentioned the following five areas most often: (1) dependency on the prison system to order their lives and provide for material needs, (2) living with other inmates, (3) being cut off from friends and family, (4) being cut off from work, and (5) having limited access to drugs and alcohol. It is concluded that the way a prisoner adapts is based on how he perceives his situation and his desire to mitigate pain and capitalize on whatever opportunities are available. Part Two examines the reentry of ex-inmates into society. Twenty-eight of the 32 inmates in the original sample were interviewed over periods ranging from 1 month to 1 year after release. The subjects' postrelease behavior was studied in relation to the changes they had undergone in prison. Specifically, the research examined the effects of prison skill-learning on four central aspects of reentry: structuring a life, resuming work roles, interacting with people, and controlling alcohol and drug use. It was found that prison skills did not prepare ex-inmates to adjust successfully in these aspects of reentry.

Cambridge, Massachusetts. SCHENKMAN PUBLISHING COMPANY, INC.. 1983. 138p.