Southern New Hampshire University
CJ-210 The U.S. Correctional System
Module 8 Notes
Recidivism
What are the advantages of being placed on probation?
More cost effective compared to incarceration
Reduces mass incarceration
Usually means avoiding some or all of a jail sentence
Individual can continue going to work or school
How is parole administered?
Regarding indeterminate sentencing, after inmates have served the minimum sentence,
their case is reviewed by a parole board, a duly constituted body of men and women who
review inmate cases and determine whether offenders have reached a rehabilitative level
sufficient to deal with the outside world. The board also dictates what specific parole
rules parolees must obey. After reviewing the case, they have the discretion to release an
inmate to serve the remainder of his or her sentence in the community.
What are the goals of diversion programs?
The primary goal of diversion programs is to prevent a novice offender from being
stigmatized and labeled by the justice system while at the same time sparing the public
the cost of unneeded criminal justice processing. The purpose of diversion in both the
juvenile and adult systems is to spare offenders from further involvement with the formal
justice process and instead enroll them in community-based treatment programs prior to a
court appearance.
What are the advantages of being released to parole?
Gives the offender the opportunity to transition back into society
Gives an individual the incentive to avoid getting into further legal trouble
Restrictions on parolees encourage good behavior after incarceration
It reduces jail and prison populations
Why do people fail on parole?
The most common offenses that lead to a parole violation are drug crimes and substance
abuse charges. Those who suffer from addiction are liable to being exposed to the same
environment, which in turn can result in the same problems. Furthermore, additional
factors that contribute to people failing on parole include not showing up for parole
appointments, failing drug or alcohol tests, incomplete community service, and failing to
pay fines or fees.
What type of treatment programs are believed to reduce recidivism?
Academic education
Vocation education
MRT
R&R
Cognitive restructuring
Cognitive behavior treatment for sex offenders
Behavioral treatment for sex offenders
