Pros And Cons Of Boot Camps

Correctional boot camps, informally known as shock or intensive incarceration programs, originated in response to high incarceration recidivism rates and prison overcrowding in the early 1980’s. The first boot camp program was established in the states of Georgia and Oklahoma to punish and reform both juvenile and adult offenders that have been convicted of first time, nonviolent crime for a short period of time. The objective of the program is to reform the offender to reduce their length of incarceration and recidivism rates. Typically, these boot camps are rigorous, military style programs that are governed by strict rules and procedures. As emphasized in the course textbook, “the inmates are forced to arise early in the morning, adhere

One advantage or pro of boot camps is the utilitarian effect of developing personal character and self-discipline among the offenders, which is associated with law abiding citizens. However, this is not a long term effect because they diminish once they return to the community. In contrast, disadvantages or cons of boot camps is the staff will use abuse their authority power by using excessive force physically and verbally abusing offenders. Typically, this occurs that most with juvenile offenders. Juveniles have reported being punched, kicked, and even slammed. Most importantly, a study conducted by Mackenzie on eight adult boot camps concluded that “boot camp does not appear to be reducing recidivism rates (Austin & Irwin), 2015.” Eight of the states did not exhibit reduction in recidivism rates, only three of states recidivism rates were reduced. The states that were successful in reducing recidivism rates incorporated longer intuitional phases and intensive supervision after being released from the