Correctional Contexts: Contemporary and Classical Readings

"Correctional Contexts unites some of the most important classic and contemporary works in corrections. Assigning this book as a stand-alone anthology or as a supplement to a corrections text brings the usually dry textbook material to life for students. It also fosters in students a deeper appreciation for the many issues facing our correctional system today. Perhaps as importantly, the book provides an historical context that allows students to come to terms with the reality that many of the issues and debates in corrections have a long and storied heritage."---Natasha A. Frost, Northeastern University

"This book is a well-organized collection of contemporary and classical readings that provides students with a broad understanding of issues surrounding correctional institutions in the United States. I like the wide range of topics that it covers and feel it is more comprehensive than many of the other texts I have considered. I also like the ability to expose students to original works in a manner that is appealing to them."---Deborah Koetzle Shaffer, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

A comprehensive and critical review of corrections, Correctional Contexts: Contemporary and Classical Readings, Fourth Edition, traces the history and development of corrections and punishment as it has evolved in the U.S. over the past few centuries. Editors Edward J. Latessa and Alexander M. Holsinger present both classical and contemporary articles that cover the history of corrections in the U.S.; discuss how various facets of the system operate today; and consider where we as a country may be headed regarding the confinement, control, and treatment of our correctional populations.

Now in its fourth edition, this acclaimed volume contains eleven new articles that discuss some of the most pressing issues facing corrections today. Topics include job stress and burnout among correctional officers; the impact of sex offender laws and registries; the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of the psychopathic offender; the availability of educational and vocational programs within prisons; recidivism; America's ever-increasing prison population; and the social consequences of the War on Drugs.