Correctional Contexts

Book excerpt: Edited by Edward J. Latessa and Alexander M. Holsinger, the third edition of this acclaimed anthology combines classical and contemporary articles on corrections. It traces the history and origins of corrections and punishment in the United States while also examining current issues and trendsin the field. New articles in every section of the book offer a much broader base for students to learn about and critically analyze corrections. Seventeen articles are new to this edition. Changes include the following: * Part I, History and Purpose of Punishment and Imprisonment, includes a new chapter on the purpose of sentencing and punishment. * Living in Prison and Working in Prison were previously two separate parts. They have been combined into one section in Part II with five new chapters. * The Part III title has been changed to Prison Policy and Inmate Rights and features an entirely new collection of chapters. * Part IV, Institutional Programming and Treatment, offers two new articles, adding up-to-date research on effective programs and what works in reducing recidivism. * Part V, Release From Prison and Parole, includes three new and one updated article focusing on reentry issues. * Part VI, New Directions, contains two new articles that focus on restorative justice and legislators' views on corrections. * A new comprehensive online Instructor's Manual/Testing Program, written by Barbara Sims, is also available. Introductions frame each section of the book, as well as each article, guiding students through an analysis of the readings that follow. Key issues and concepts are identified, which aid instructors in the development of class dialogue and exam creation--as will the discussion questions that followeach article.