Offender Rehabilitation Programmes: The Role of the Prison Officer

This book explores how prison officers can influence extra-programmatic conditions to enhance rehabilitation outcomes and reduce reoffending. It reviews the literature on prison-based rehabilitation programs, examining factors influencing their outcomes and the effects of the prison officer role. Three main routes are identified for prison officers to contribute to enhancing rehabilitation outcomes: influencing prison social environments, enhancing prisoner treatment readiness and program engagement, and identifying and supporting prisoners' wider needs. The book also suggests avenues for further research in this area.

Format: Hardback
Length: 140 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the fascinating realm of how prison officers can wield significant influence over extra-programmatic conditions, ultimately enhancing rehabilitation outcomes and contributing to the reduction of reoffending. Through a thorough examination of the extensive literature surrounding prison-based rehabilitation programs, it explores the myriad factors that shape their outcomes and the profound impact of the prison officer role.

In the opening chapter, the book delves into current perspectives on the role of prisons and the efficacy of effective offender rehabilitation programs. It then outlines the methodological approach employed in conducting an integrative review, shedding light on how prison officers can support and enhance rehabilitation efforts within correctional institutions.

The review findings reveal three primary pathways through which prison officers can make a substantial impact on rehabilitation outcomes:

Influencing prison social environments: By fostering positive and supportive relationships among prisoners and staff, prison officers can create an environment conducive to rehabilitation. This includes promoting social cohesion, reducing conflict, and addressing issues related to social isolation and marginalization.

Enhancing prisoner treatment readiness and program engagement: Prison officers play a crucial role in preparing prisoners for rehabilitation programs and ensuring their active participation. This involves providing guidance, support, and incentives to prisoners, fostering a sense of motivation and commitment to change.

Identifying and supporting prisoners' wider needs: Recognizing that rehabilitation goes beyond just addressing criminal behavior, prison officers can identify and address the broader needs of prisoners. This includes addressing issues such as substance abuse, mental health disorders, educational deficiencies, and family problems, which can significantly hinder their ability to reintegrate into society.

Furthermore, the book explores potential avenues for further research in this domain, employing a declarative sentence mapping approach. This innovative method facilitates a clear and structured analysis of the literature, highlighting key themes, research gaps, and areas for future exploration.

By bridging two previously distinct areas of research—the role of prison officers and the effectiveness of prison rehabilitation interventions—this book offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the real-world context of prisons and their staff. It is of immense interest to academics, researchers, and practitioners in the fields of penology, forensic psychology, probation, and offender rehabilitation. Moreover, postgraduate students and professionals engaged in prison policy will find this book invaluable in their pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

Weight: 338g
Dimension: 162 x 242 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032229423