NCJ Number
164903
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 47 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1996) Pages: 69-72
Date Published
1996
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article outlines Sweden's Prison Treatment Act and considers how it is being implemented in practice.
Abstract
Sweden's Prison Treatment Act reflects the underlying philosophy that those sentenced to prison are "citizens in prison" rather than "prisoners." Under the latter perspective, the emphasis is on punishing those who have broken the law, out of the belief that the more they suffer because of their offenses, the less likely they are to repeat them after their release. Under the perspective of treating inmates as "citizens in prison," the emphasis is on increasing the prospects of an inmate's successful reintegration into society after release. The policy of the Swedish Prison and Probation Service is to emphasize "the journey back to society" from the first day in prison. The occupational activities of prisoners during the working day are designed to contribute to and improve their capacity to adjust in society. "Occupational" activities refer to work in the various workshops, basic education, advanced studies, special treatment programs, life skills training, physical education, and work or study release. Activities are designed to encourage and provide experience in adjustment to the requirements of working life, heighten the sense of personal worth, and improve the capacity to earn a living. Prisoners are encouraged to participate in meaningful leisure activities, and they are provided information about the cultural and leisure activities in the community. Furloughs are intended to prepare prisoners for their lives after release and improve their capacity to adjust in society. In treating inmates as citizens who need assistance for achieving positive adjustment in society, rather than as criminals who deserve the wrath of society, the Swedish correctional system looks toward what these citizens can become rather than what they have been.