ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the correctional system and its various components, and the role of social work within corrections. Correctional facilities focus on the control of inmates and prisoners. The goals of community-based corrections are to punish offenders or restrict their behaviors. Community-based services should be offered to offenders regardless of whether they are transitioning to communities or only receiving supervision and monitoring under the jurisdiction of community-based corrections. The demographic characteristics of jail and prison inmates are similar to those of individuals who are arrested. Inmates and prisoners tend to be male, poor, and represent racial and ethnic minorities. A jail is a local correctional facility operated by local police departments or country sheriff departments. The incarcerated inmate has displayed what the correctional officer reported as inappropriate behavior during meals and while in his cell.
