This article introduces the values and principles behind Growth and how penal reform can be realised through a Growth-based approach, emphasising the core conditions of transformative change. Gaining traction and building momentum for penal reform remains challenging; yet this article highlights how a new perspective on penal reform may help drive change and reduce social harm. This article proposes that prisons and penal organisations can be places of meaning, hope, and growth if core conditions of change are embraced to meet transformative ends. Start with the Why Growth is not solely about the rehabilitation of prisoners but instead focuses on growing an organisation and the … [Read more...] about Introducing Growth: Transforming Penal Reform Together
Archives for December 2020
New Review Highlights Strategies for Managing COVID-19 in Correctional Facilities When Mental Illness Is a Factor
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, governments around the world have had to identify, implement, and refine regulatory practices to help decrease the spread of the virus and mitigate the impact on healthcare facilities and personnel. A new rapid review conducted by researchers in Canada highlights strategies considered most effective in managing COVID-19 in correctional facilities and other secure units, specifically for individuals with mental health issues. Here, we provide a summary of key findings and recommendations from the research, published in Victims & Offenders: An International Journal of Evidence-based Research, Policy, and Practice. Research Context Measures … [Read more...] about New Review Highlights Strategies for Managing COVID-19 in Correctional Facilities When Mental Illness Is a Factor
Career Experiences and Lessons Learned About Criminal Justice Reform
Several months ago, Dr. Jeffrey L. Metzner was interviewed and asked about his career, advice to others in the early to mid-stage of career development, and recommendations for contributing to corrections’ system reform. He was gracious in his time and humble in describing the experiences that led to his current status of “expert” in the field. He was quick to point out the opportunities that he had to learn from others and how that may have shaped the trajectory of his career. Just the Basics Jeffrey L. Metzner, M.D., was appointed to the IACFP Board in 2018 and was recently reappointed to serve a second term. He received his M.D. from the University of Maryland Medical School and … [Read more...] about Career Experiences and Lessons Learned About Criminal Justice Reform
International Research and Resources for Criminal Justice Reform
In this article, we highlight international research and resources for practitioners in the field that feature criminal justice reform, including items focused on criminal justice and behavior, COVID, and race and racism. Criminal Justice and Behavior Robert Morgan, Editor of Criminal Justice and Behavior, introduced “At the Forefront” to provide readers of the journal with a concise, focused, expert review of emerging areas of criminal justice psychology. This month the focus is on systemic racial and ethnic disparities and whether risk assessments exacerbate them. The article, “Racist Algorithms or Systemic Problems? Risk Assessments and Racial Disparities,” was first published … [Read more...] about International Research and Resources for Criminal Justice Reform