Some Hidden Factors behind a Probation Officer's Recommendations

Abstract

The article reports on an informal "bull session" held by pro bation officers whose primary function is to make a presentence investigation of adult candidates for probation in the criminal courts. The group met for the express purpose of looking into some of the less obvious factors which may, consciously or uncon sciously, influence a probation officer's recommendation to the court in a particular case. Discussion centered in some rather searching questions which called for and elicited interesting and frank responses.