Differing Correctional Managerial Approaches in the Caribbean

• NCJ Number: 100314
• Journal: Indian Journal of Criminology Volume: 13 Issue: 2 Dated: (July 1985) Pages: 103-108
• Author(s): J S E Opolot
• Date Published: 1985
• Length: 5 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Overview Text
• Language: English
• Country: India
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS. Paper presented at the Ninth Annueal Caribbean Studies Conference held in St. Kitts-Nevis, May 30-June 2, 1984.

Annotation

This article examines correctional management practices in colonial and postcolonial Caribbean countries.

Abstract

In general, colonial correctional approaches were modeled after those of the mother countries, France and Great Britain. Corrections executives either followed the status quo because of limited resources and the intractability of inmates or worked at enhancing operational patterns. Colonial administrators introduced a pattern of isolationism and withdrawal aimed at keeping prisoners out of sight and mind of the public. In part, because of colonial socialization, postcolonial approaches have tended to remain bureaucratic and slow to incorporate reforms or innovations. The exception to this pattern is Cuba, where corrections have emphasized a community-based approach to education, prevention, and rehabilitation and re-education of offenders. The approach has been one that combines popularization, formalism, and professionalism. Correctional reform in Jamaica has the dual objective of containment and rehabilitation through educational, vocational, and recreational programs. In Belize, the Antilles, and the Dominican Republic recent reforms have focused on vocational training for inmates. 12 references.