Functions of Corrections essays

Functions of Corrections essays When we hear the word corrections the first thing that most people will think of is jail or prison; some custodial institution. Many people dont realize that the same term also applies to non-custodial alternatives such as parole or probation, programs and/or facilities specifically designed for juvenile offenders and halfway houses. It is popularly believed the function of corrections is merely to lock criminals up. While this is not entirely untrue, it is also only a very small portion of the role that corrections plays in our society. The functions of corrections are to provide control, custody and care to any person convicted of a criminal offense. Providing control for correctional clients is twofold. The first thing that needs to be addressed is the correctional employee. These employees work in any governmental jurisdiction in the country. They sport various titles such as Correction Guard, Warden, Social worker, Doctor, Lawyer, Cook, Grounds Keeper, and Secretary among others. Each of these various professions plays a vital role in keeping our many correctional institutions operational. The second component of control lies in classifying a correctional client. All clients that are in a custodial institution require that they be housed in an environment which will provide them security as well one in which their individual medical andor program needs will be met. Custodial clients are classified to either a maximum, medium, or minimum security facility. Once there, they are assigned to a unit or mod. At this point the correctional client is also assigned a Unit Manager, a Case Manager, a Correctional Counselor as well as some one from the Education, Psychology and Work departments. Correctional clients meet on a regular basis with their Unit Team to develop, review and discuss programs they should be involved in as well as to address any other concerns or needs they may have...