Description
This course is a study of the history and evolution of corrections from medieval beliefs about the nature of punishment through the establishment of church sponsored penitentiaries to current philosophies of punishment and incarceration. The purpose and function of US jails and prisons, the differing levels of security and the diverse approaches to treatment and rehabilitation vs punishment will be examined. The course will also study recent theory and research pertinent to the effectiveness of prison programming in preparing men and women for successful reintegration back to the community. Current social issues and policies such as Mass Incarceration, Prison for Profit, Use of Solitary Confinement and Physical Restraint, Out of State Transfers, the Age of the Waiver to the Adult System will be debated. The physical and psychological impact of the correctional system on both inmates and correctional officers will be examined.