The Routledge Handbook on Correctionsin the United States brings together original contributions from leading scholars in criminology and criminal justice that provide an in-depth, state-of-the-art look at the most important topics in corrections. The book discusses the foundations of corrections in the United States, philosophical issues that have guided historical movements in corrections, different types of punishment and supervision, trends in incarceration, issues affecting race and ethnicity in corrections, special populations in corrections, and a variety of other important and emerging issues.
The United States has fully embraced mass incarceration and currently has one of the highest rates of imprisonment in the world. Such mass incarceration comes with a cost—both monetarily and politically. Budgetary pressures along with increasing uncertainty regarding the deterrent effect of imprisonment have led to a need for alternative forms of sanctions. While incarceration remains a mainstream form of punishment for many offenders, specialized courts and community corrections are expanding nationwide. This book scrutinizes innovative community programs as well as more traditional forms of sanctions, and exposes the key issues and debates surrounding the correctional process in the United States. Among other important topics, selections address the inherent discrimination within the system, special issues surrounding certain populations, and the utilization of the death penalty as the ultimate form of punishment. This book is an essential reference for academicians and practitioners working in corrections and related agencies, as well as for students taking courses in criminal justice, criminology, and related subjects.
