Introduction to Corrections

Millions in our nation are under some type of judicial sanction, with some individuals behind bars but the majority serving their sentences while living and working among us. Introduction to Corrections examines predominant issues related to the system of administering to offenders in the United States. Written in a simple, concise style and enhanced with discussion questions and a list of key terms in each chapter, this volume begins with an overview of the system and a historical review and then focuses on select issues, including:



Sentencing goals and rationales, and types of sentencingNoncustodial supervision, including probation, electronic monitoring, home confinement, halfway houses, and offender registrationParole and postconfinement releaseJail, prison, and jurisdictional differences in correction systemsChallenges faced by corrections personnel, including overcrowding, health issues, sexual assault in institutions, and prison gangsConstitutional challenges to inmate controlsIssues related to victims’ rights, including federal and state funds and notification programsCorrectional counseling perspectives and prevailing sociological theoriesControversies surrounding capital punishment in the United StatesJuvenile corrections, including probation, parole, and life sentences for minorsThe evolution of corrections in the United States has spanned three centuries and has moved from an origin of basic community-based confinement to an extensive system that includes federal, state, local, private, and military facilities and programs. Examining diverse topics relevant to a range of professionals in the corrections community, this book explores the functions of corrections as well as those who serve in the profession.