Correctional Theory: Context and Consequences

By Francis T. Cullen, Richard A. Ball, J. Robert Lilly

Book Overview

This accessible book identifies and evaluates the major competing theories used to guide the goals, policies, and practices of the correctional system. The authors demonstrate that changes in theories can legitimize changing ways of treating and punishing offenders, and they help readers understand how changes in the social and political context of U.S. society impact correctional theory and policy. Designed to motivate readers to become sophisticated consumers of correctional information, the book emphasizes the importance of using evidence-based information to guide decisions, rather than relying on nonscientific commonsense or ideology-based beliefs.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1412981808
• ISBN13: 9781412981804
• Release Date: April 2011
• Publisher: SAGE Publications, Inc
• Length: 264 Pages
• Weight: 1.08 lbs.
• Dimensions: 10.5" x 0.5" x 7.0"

Customer Reviews

Criminologial Theory

The text book is typical of its type and gives short chapters on each subject.

social context

The previous reviewer missed the point. Criminological theory should be studied with an appreciation of the social context (i.e., history) in which the theories were developed and extended.