Corrections : An Introduction

Presenting an overview of the entire correctional process, this book provides readers with a practical understanding of today's operations of corrections. It includes correctional history and theory; yet concentrates on what we do in corrections, why we do it—and what challenges face contemporary correctional staff and administrators. Unique integration of the author's practical experience with the theories and policies for correctional agencies, demonstrates both the realities and reasons in carrying out correctional practices at the local, state, and federal levels. A five-part organization covers theories of crime, how society responded to crime prior to the 18th Century, the various elements of the correctional process operation, perspectives regarding various categories of correctional clients, and the challenges facing corrections now and in the future. For individuals and taxpayers interested in today's criminal justice system, and an understanding of how programs operate and how much they cost.

Richard P. Seiter has twenty-five years of experience as a correctional administrator. He worked in two Federal Bureau of Prisons institutions (the Federal Correctional Institution in Pleasanton, California, and the U.S. Penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kansas), served as warden of two others (the Federal Prison Camp in Allenwood, Pennsylvania, and the Federal Correctional Institution in Greenville, Illinois), and was both Assistant Director for Industries, Education, and Training and Chief Operating Officer of Federal Prison Industries.

Dr. Seiter was Director of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, responsible for an annual budget of $400 million, twenty prisons, 8,000 staff members, and 30,000 inmates. He also oversaw the construction of 12 new state prisons at a cost of more than $500 million.

Dr. Seiter was the first Superintendent of the National Academy of Corrections and is currently director of the Criminal Justice Program at Saint Louis University.