Abstract The focus of this study is on the Texas state prisons and the education system in the State prisons. Before analyzing the effects of the Texas education system on recidivism in Texas, the paper provides a general overview of the Texas criminal justice system and the general theories of rehabilitation. Furthermore, there is a discussion of the theory of education as a way of reducing recidivism. The paper investigates whether the Texas prison education system works in reducing recidivism. The case study of the Project RIO that is initiated by the State government which illustrates the fact that education system has to be combined with other strategies in order for the rate of recidivism to decline.
From the Paper "Although studies in the ?70s have shown that correctional higher education is significant in reducing recidivism rates, the public outcry against crime and opportunities given to inmates has resulted in a reversal of the educational approach towards inmates in the ?90s. In the early ?90s, elected representatives started to forbid federal tuition assistance to inmates. In the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, there was a provision that denied all prisoners access to federal Pell Grants. Essentially, the provision was included to deter prisoners from viewing prisons as relaxing places that offered educational opportunities (The Center on Crime, Communities & Culture, 1997)."
Abstract The central impetus of this paper is firstly to provide a comprehensive overview of the factors that influence recidivism in juveniles. The focus in this proposal is on the causative factors that emanate from juvenile delinquency and which can be seen to extend to recidivistic behavior. The aim of the research, however, is not only to document these causative factors but also to integrate and a suggest patterns within these various factors.
Outline:
Introduction: Aims and Intentions of This Study
An Overview of the Problematics of Juvenile Recidivism The Problematics of Recidivism as a Result of Legal and Court Process
Causal Variables
Theoretical Concerns
Conclusion
From the Paper "An important aspect that also forms a crucial part of the debate about recidivism and effective measures is that in many studies punishment is often considered a les effective means of dealing with this problem. In the view of Barron ( 1954) " Punishment is especially likely to be followed by recidivism, possibly because punishment does not reform and because it results in social ostracism of the punished. The younger the child is at the time of his or her first adjudication as a delinquent, the greater is the likelihood that there will be recidivism. " (Barron, 1954, p. 319)"
Abstract Research study on high prison recidivism rate. Major problem of recidivism in the criminal corrections system. Use of schock incarcertation or the prison boot camp concept as an approach to solving the problem. Goal and objectives of shock incarcertation and other alternative approaches. Cites results based on studies.
From the Paper "RECIDIVISM: A REVIEW AND AN ANALYSIS
I. Introduction
The essence of the major problem confronting criminal corrections in the United States is the unacceptably high recidivism rate among the offenders processed through the system. The results of the application of many different approaches to the problem fail to provide a definitive answer to the recidivism problem. One approach that has become widely used in the United States is shock incarceration, or the prison boot camp concept (Bentayou, 1995).
Early research on the use of shock incarceration gave the programs glowing reviews. In all too many instances, however, the studies assessed limited data and tended to develop the findings that advocates of the concept wanted (Marcus-Mendoza, Klein-Saffran ..."
Abstract This ten-page junior level paper focuses on the rate of recidivism and its possible causes. Several researches have been conducted on this subject with Quinsey study being the most important and reliable as it is based on data collected over two decades. Recidivism rate is high in the United States as FBI claims that 74 percent of all offenders return to prison within four years of their release. This shows that there is something seriously wrong with rehabilitation programs and the policies on which they are based. Quinsey and his associated maintain that with the identification of correct risk predictor, a better rehabilitation program can be designed.
Abstract This paper examines and analyzes issues involving recidivism and driving while under the influence of alcohol offenders in terms of the effects of chronic DUI offenders, the types of therapeutic programs used, and their effectiveness. The focus is upon DUI recidivism in the city of Chicago, but the national impact is covered as well.
Abstract This paper examines how there are many factors that affect offenders? status and the rate of recidivism. In particular, it looks at how, in addition to complicating personal and family of origin issues, many African-American youths are trapped in systems that reduce the likelihood of their benefiting from or participating in educational or vocational programs. It attempts to show how, in the combined services of social work, educators, parents, and the criminal juvenile justice system, there is hope that a broken system can be fixed to reduce the rate of recidivism among African-American juveniles.
From the Paper "But what are the psychosocial characteristics of these young people who commit crime so often and so long? Some of the characteristics typically associated with court-involved youth are things like a lack of stable family environment, lack of a family support system or poor family relationships, abuse in the family (including sexual abuse), lack of attachment to school and community, poor school performance, poverty, early parenthood, negative peer group influences, early experimentation with drugs and/or persistent alcohol and drug use. Also, there is a two to six times greater chance that children of incarcerated parents will end up in prison, as compared to their peers. A recent survey of children of offenders by the Corrections Association of New York found that 41 percent of teenagers had been suspended from school and 31 percent had run-ins with the police."
Abstract This paper identifies those factors that can serve to reduce the potential for recidivism; to this end, there is a need to determine why people continue to break the law and return to the criminal justice system. It explains that, based on the failures of the system to date, it may be that criminal justice researchers do not take advantage of the existing statistical data to the maximum extent possible in order to provide intelligent reasoned recommendations concerning effective use of available resources. It is the position of this research project that, based on existing information concerning rates of recidivism, a survey form can be designed to help identify the potential for future criminal acts by prisoners in a pre-release status.
From the Paper "Over the last 30 years the American prison population has grown dramatically, and upon release, many convicts return to crime as a way of life after serving their sentences (Schmalleger, 1995, p. 424). Probation and parole officers are overloaded with cases and cannot properly help or supervise all the people assigned to them, Many jails and prisons are severely overcrowded, and riots, beatings and killings occur frequently. The controversy over the role of the correctional system focuses on whether they should be rehabilitated. Some people believe the purpose of imprisoning offenders is to prevent them from committing more crimes. However, it is the position of this study that this prevention may only be temporary if researchers do not find out why convicts commit more crimes in the first place."
A research study examining the difficulties that offenders face in finding employment once they are released from prison and how this impacts rates of recidivism.
Abstract This paper aims to discuss the employment-related dilemma faced by offenders on penal supervision and how their employment status as ex-convicts determines their success on supervised settings and the possibility of their re-offending. The study looks at some of the growing literature regarding the need to provide employment assistance to offenders as a strategy to reduce the incidence of recidivism. A critical review and appraisal is also made of transitional job reentry programs for ex-convicts to determine which methods and strategies work and which do not.
Outline:
Abstract
Table of Contents
List of Tables
List of Figures
Introduction
Literature Review
Employment & Crime
Barriers
Recidivism Low Labor Market Value
Reentry Strategies
Findings
Iv. Summary, Conclusion & Recommendations
V. References
From the Paper "Research shows that ex-convicts who are gainfully employed are less likely to return to jail (State Progress, 2007), thus reinforcing the view that employment for ex-prisoners benefits society tremendously by reducing the chances for recidivism. This makes employment the key that could unlock a solution to the perennial problem of recidivism, the primary reason for prison congestion and overcrowding. However, individuals with criminal or arrest records face formidable challenges in finding employment, which challenges actually jeopardize public safety by contributing to recidivism (State Progress, 2007). There are also the incalculable economic costs that accrue from recidivism because of the need to allocate endless funds for the upkeep and maintenance of prisons. "
Abstract In this article, the writer reviews the high recidivism rates in the United States and looks at what this says about the nations' correctional system. Specifically, the paper argues that the emphasis has too often been upon punishment and not nearly enough upon rehabilitation and re-integration. As a result, the writer maintains that a distressingly low number of inmates are receiving the therapeutic intervention they need and many more are not receiving the skills development they need, either. This must change if recidivism is to drop appreciably.
From the Paper "Recidivism among those exiting the United States correctional system is a serious problem for a host of reasons. For one thing, if the state has devoted billions of dollars towards cutting down crime rates by incarcerating dangerous offenders only to have those same individuals re-offend upon release, then the monies set towards housing them in institutions has been, for all intents and purposes, wasted. Furthermore, high recidivism rates (especially among violent offenders) means greater risk for the general public and that means fear, general misunderstanding, and an overwhelmingly negative public perception of the correctional system in the United States. Unfortunately, public fears about the relative inefficacy of the correctional system appear to be well-founded in America."
Abstract The paper reviews studies on the effect of mandatory sentencing upon recidivism as well as the deterrence effect of Three Strikes legislation. The paper highlights the political overtones of these studies and then discusses the design of a study to determine the effects of the Three Strikes legislation upon recidivism.
From the Paper "The most blatant symptom that the corrections system is not functioning properly is the rate of recidivism, those that were thought to have been rehabilitated or paid their debt to society become re-involved with the criminal justice system. Prisons are far too crowded and society will not tolerate a revolving door policy, either felons once convicted need to be permanently separated from society or upon their release need to feel highly motivated to choose another path and not become a repeat customer. One area of particular interest and controversy are the "Three Strikes" laws of many states; understanding that there are a myriad of theories concerning the reduction of recidivism, a study of the effects of enhanced sentencing for repeat offenders was selected."
Abstract This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the recidivism rates of African American juvenile offenders, including a theoretical background and an outline of the contributions to the field of juvenile justice. It includes critiques and suggestions for future research and concludes with policy implications regarding recidivism rates of African-American juvenile drug offenders.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Theoretical Background
Literature Review
Contributions to the Field of Juvenile Justice
Policy Implications
Critiques of the Juvenile Justice System
Suggestions for Future Research
Conclusion
From the Paper "A review of the literature indicates that although recidivism rates among African American juvenile drug offenders remain very high, there are other methods of addressing the problem. The available research indicates that juvenile diversion programs reduce criminal justice system costs and are more cost-effective than traditional processing. One of the difficulties faced by diversion programs is that most programs are able to deal with only two or three percent of cases charged and may have difficulty demonstrating a downstream impact on recidivism. Finally, juvenile justice and recidivism necessitates more research studies, as there still remain many questions on how to prevent recidivism from occurring."
Abstract This paper discusses the issues of sex offenders often being reviled by society and marked for life. The paper questions whether there is treatment for the sex offender or whether he or she is likely to commit a re-offense, also known as recidivism. The paper defines a sex offender, discusses the typical punishments and examines the statistics that typicaly surround sex offenders with regards to recidivism.
From the Paper "In conclusion, I believe there is help for the sex offender not only through his or her own treatment, but through the continued support of advocates like Dr. Karl Hanson. It is only with ongoing treatment and success stories that the tidal wave of resentment against the sex offender will subside. It is only with lawyers and doctors testifying about the true progress of their client's treatment, that sex offenders will be able to reclaim their homes. It is only through positive success stories on TV, that the neighborhood will accept the sex offender. And it's only through time and perseverance that this will happen."
Abstract The paper proposes and evaluates treatment and intervention strategies within the correctional system, along with their effectiveness in influencing offender behaviors, as well astreatment and intervention impact on operations. It includes a discussion on studies of substance abuse, educational programs, community-based and faith-based programs, and programs geared to successfully acclimating offenders to a world outside of prison. The paper highlights major goal of each of these programs to effectively maintain the offender in the community and to prevent recidivism in the future.
Outline:
Abstract
Problem
Purpose
Goal and Objective
Relevant Literature
Research and Design Methods
Implications for Policy and Practice
Dissemination Strategy
From the Paper "To assist in literacy efforts, the policymakers, corrections officers, and instructors within the prison system need to treat each prisoner as a valuable human being with potential to improve themselves through education. Additionally, studies have shown that "inmates reported that they were more inclined to participate in educational programs when they saw clear opportunities to improve their capabilities for success after being released. Further, ex-prisoners who participated in employment and vocational education programs in prison had a better chance of maintaining employment and earning slightly more money than similar ex-prisoners who had not participated in the programs"
Abstract This paper examines, through a literature review, how more recent programs and proponents of reform suggest that reforming juvenile programs and offering juveniles more access to rehabilitation programs may help reduce rates of recidivism and crime in large urban centers.
Outline:
Significance of Juvenile Programs and Recidivism Overview of Juvenile Programs
Overview of Recidivism Rates Among Juveniles
Relationship Between Juvenile Programs and Recidivism Family Interventions and Recidivism Parent Child Interactions and Delinquency
Supervision and Delinquency
From the Paper "Studies suggest that violent juvenile crime is increasingly on the rise (Butterfield, 1996; Howard & Jenson, 1998). This suggests that youth crime is not only escalating but also becoming more violent (Howard & Jenson, 1998). In light of this many juvenile justice systems are now challenging the beliefs that have traditionally guided decision making policies and practices in the hopes to establish a better balance between "rehabilitating" and "punishing" juvenile offenders (Howard & Jenson, 324). In the past the juvenile justice system has focused more on punishing offenders for their actions, with increasing numbers of young adults transferred to adult facilities for punishment and lengthy incarcerations (Tolan & Guerra, 1994)."
Abstract This report examines the juvenile justice system in relation to recidivism rates in African-American juvenile offenders. The juvenile justice system is placed in societal context through use of labeling theory, control theory, and the presence of racial profiling. The link to the program-based juvenile correctional, educational, and/or residential treatment program is provided through an association with the continuity of labeling-based role behavior within the juvenile justice system. Issues of recidivism are compared between different sorts of programs, with an emphasis on the residential treatment program. The formation of an environment that simultaneously blocks the presence of criminality-associated factors and values the inhabitant who is incarcerated, strictly on terms of their being a criminal among other criminals, is assessed in its contribution to higher rates of recidivism following incarceration. The report primarily exists as a literature review rather than an actual longitudinal or other experimental methodology presentation, and operates on the central hypothesis that African-American juvenile delinquents tend to increase rather than decrease levels of criminal behavior after being incarcerated in the juvenile justice system. The effects of discrimination in terms of unequal treatment within the juvenile justice system of differing races is also addressed, as are program realities.
From the Paper "These individuals may put themselves into a situation in which these relationships with supervision are seen as negative and/or absent. The role of the juvenile justice system in replacing these supervisory relationships is therefore crucial for an understanding of recidivism patterns following incarceration. The provision of a positive supervisory structure is what is wanted, while the provision of a negative supervisory structure is seen to detrimentally affect the juvenile within the justice system and lead to a higher likelihood of the original negative-supervision attitude's being reinforced. "The onset of puberty, the increased presence of alcohol, drugs, and weapons in a young person's environment, and growing economic pressures all increase the risk of being a perpetrator or a victim of violence" (Posner, 1998). The reduction of these presences in the juvenile justice system is too often reinforced within a sort of labeling situation that still places a high premium on the criminal's role of association with these presences."
