Title

A critique and qualified defense of "correctional quackery"

Abstract

Correctional programs that do not have a discernible effect on recidivism have been dismissed as "correctional quackery" by some scholars. We argue that labeling programs and practices as "quackery" has certain limitations given the state of our theory and research, and we explore why some programs might be worthwhile for reasons beyond their effect, or noneffect, on recidivism. Our discussion is framed around the need to balance the goals of relying on existing evidence to guide correctional programming, while remaining open to new advances in our understanding of human behavior. We highlight the need to question existing assumptions about reductions in recidivism as the only program goal worthy of pursuit, and we discuss the potential value of a range of nontraditional treatments in correctional settings. We end with four recommendations regarding research on programming in corrections.

Department(s)

Criminology and Criminal Justice

Document Type

Article

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1177/1043986211432203

Keywords

correctional quackery, metatheory, program outcomes, recidivism, rehabilitation

Publication Date

2-1-2012

Journal Title

Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice

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