This chapter discusses the future of corrections by examining 5 dilemmas, 4 trends, and 3 challenges facing the system. It outlines how the philosophy and methods of corrections have changed, and aspirations for a system focused on evidence-based practices, technology, cost-effectiveness, and professionalism. The key challenges are to develop new leadership promoting best practices, refocus investments on rehabilitation programs, and restore moral and ethical priorities.

1. CHAPTER THIRTEEN:
The Future of Corrections
Learning Objectives
1. Understand how the philosophy of the U.S. correctional system has changed over the
years and what this has meant for the correctional system.
2. Know the major dilemmas facing the correctional system and how they might be
resolved.
3. Identify four substantial forces that face corrections and describe their importance.
4. Understand what “good leadership” means in the context of the current correctional
system of the United States and know what it will take for these leaders to more widely
implement “what works” in corrections.
5. Describe the aspirations for the U.S. correctional system and how those aspirations might
be achieved.
Brief Chapter Outline
I. Five Dilemmas Facing Corrections
a. Mission
b. Methods
c. Structure
d. Personnel
e. Costs
II. Four Trends in the Correctional System
a. Evidence-Based Practices
b. Techno-Corrections
c. Falling Crime Rates
d. Professionalization
III. Three Challenges for the Future of Corrections
a. Challenge 1: Reinvigorate a New Correctional Leadership
b. Challenge 2: Refocus Our Investments in What Works
c. Challenge 3: Reclaim the Moral and Ethical High Road
IV. Changing Corrections: A Final View

2. Media Tools
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/189106-2.pdf
This article discusses the future of corrections by looking at the past 30 years of correctional
practices. The article discusses the practical application of many of the concepts learned in this
entire text.
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/181411.pdf
This PDF article discusses the concept of techno-corrections and in particular the benefits and
disadvantages of modern technology as it is applied to correctional system.

3. http://www.examiner.com/corrections-policy-in-national/correctional-excellence-
accreditation-and-the-american-correctional-association
This website links students to an article about correctional excellence and in particular about the
concept of accreditation with the American Correctional Association. It reviews the procedures
that an institution would need to go through to get accredited and how accreditation process
improves professionalism in this growing workforce.
What If…
You have just been appointed to the head the Department of Corrections in your state. The
governor gives you the list of challenges that need to be addressed. These challenges are:
Challenge 1: Reinvigorate a New Correctional Leadership
Challenge 2: Refocus Our Investments in What Works
Challenge 3: Reclaim the Moral and Ethical High Road
Devise a strategic plan that you will present to the governor that attempts to address these
challenges. What specific initiatives will you take to implement your plan? Please be sure to
address each challenge.