Literature Review

Introduction to Project

Melanie M. Molina

Department of Criminal Justice, Miami Dade College

CCJ 3700: Introduction to Research Methods

Dr. Shawn Schwaner

January 24, 2021

American Prisons were first founded in 1790 by the Pennsylvanian Quakers. The purpose of the prisons was to provide something that was less cruel and brutal than the dungeon prisons and jails (Jenness, 2016). Out of this, they created a place where prisoners could read scriptures and repent thinking that this would reform prisoners. Although prison does not necessarily change them, the recidivism rates in the United Sates in 50% are incarcerated again, or within three years of their release 2 out of 3 will get incarcerated again (Kaeble, 2014).

There are four major purposes for prisons: retribution, incapacitation, deterrence, and rehabilitation (Stop the Crime, 2002). Retribution means punishment for crimes against society. Incapacitation refers to the removal of criminals from society so that they can no longer harm innocent people. Deterrence means the prevention of future crime. Rehabilitation refers to activities designed to change criminals into law abiding citizens, and may include providing education courses in prison, teaching job skills and offering counselling with a psychologist or social worker. Although these are all purposes for prisons, however, it is not this way throughout the system.

Why are there so many challenges facing corrections. Throughout this paper I will be diving into the reasons and the biggest challenges that corrections have faced in the last couple of years. Corrections is one of the biggest components of criminal justice system, and it is important to know about corrections. It is important to know if there are any changes that could be implemented in order to develop the system for a better future for the criminals. As citizens, we want the country to become a safer place for our future families, and it starts with the criminals.

References:

Jenness, V. (2016, August 27). United States Prison System History - Valerie Jenness. Retrieved January 24, 2021, from https://valeriejenness.com/history-of-the-united-states-prison-system/

Kaeble, D. (2014). Incarceration. Retrieved January 24, 2021, from https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/social-determinants-health/interventions-resources/incarceration#:~:text=The%20U.S.%20releases%20over%207,people%20from%20prison%20each%20year.&text=However%2C%20recidivism%20is%20common.&text=Within%203%20years%20of%20their,than%2050%25%20are%20incarcerated%20again.

Purposes of Prisons. (2002). Retrieved January 24, 2021, from http://www.stoptheaca.org/purpose.html#:~:text=Prisons%20have%20four%20major%20purposes,to%20society%20for%20their%20crimes.