The Failure of Correctional Management

Abstract

A review of the literature indicates that correction has sig nificantly failed to "correct," "rehabilitate," or otherwise change its clients. Some attribute this failure to the so-called profound philosophical cleavage between custody and treatment forces; others say that treatment, as currently conducted in most cor rectional agencies, is nothing more than a euphemism for custody or control. This paper discusses these positions and concludes that the custody-treatment cleavage is more myth than reality and that it is not the primary basis for correctional failure. The failure, instead, is attributable in part to inadequate and in competent management and leadership by correctional execu tives. A number of reasons for managerial inadequacy and sev eral possible ameliorative steps that can be taken to produce success instead of failure are suggested.