Abstract

With such large numbers of individuals requiring supervision in the United States, it is essential to understand what contributes to the success of probationers. Probation officers work closest with probationers and develop a unique understanding of what contributes to a probationer's success. The framework for this research is rooted in the idea that the officers experience conflicting goals of rehabilitation and law enforcement. Extensive interviews were conducted with probation officers in Federal and local probation to assess their views on the goals of probation, needs of probationers, and best practices. Hypotheses tested involve the importance of evidence-based practices, cognitive-behavioral therapies, and the use of risk and needs assessments. Findings indicate that officers downplay rehabilitation and successful practices in response to the conflicting goals that they face, such as ensuring public safety. In response to these findings, probation departments should focus on transferring what has been determined to contribute to success into everyday use of supervision.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Probation officers--Attitudes; Probation--United States--Public opinion

Publication Date

11-1-2011

Document Type

Thesis

Department, Program, or Center

Department of Criminal Justice (CLA)

Advisor

Williams, Laverne

Advisor/Committee Member

McCluskey, John

Advisor/Committee Member

Porter, Judy

Comments

Note: imported from RIT’s Digital Media Library running on DSpace to RIT Scholar Works. Physical copy available through RIT's The Wallace Library at: HV9304 .A73 2011

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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