Critical Look at the Idea of Boot Camp as a Correctional Reform

• NCJ Number: 122948
• Journal: Crime and Delinquency Volume: 36 Issue: 2 Dated: (April 1990) Pages: 204-222
• Author(s): M Morash; L Rucker
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 19 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Program Description (Demonstrative)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS.

Annotation

There is a growing interest in modeling a military boot camp experience in correctional settings.

Abstract

Prior research on the history of military approaches in correctional settings and military basic training and on the images of masculinity that are encouraged in correctional boot camps raises questions about the efficacy of the correctional boot camp reform. The military model may set the stage for abuse of power and encourage increased aggression by both staff and offenders. Research does not provide indications that there will be beneficial effects. The potential for negative outcomes has clear implications for the design and evaluation of correctional boot camps. 82 references. (Author abstract)