This textbook considers the full breadth of the criminal justice system, going beyond prisons to cover other punishments such as out-of-court disposals and community penalties, as well as issues around rehabilitation and reintegration. It offers a holistic and contemporary account of the penal system in England and Wales.Helping students to understanding the ever-changing environment of penal policy and practice, this book not only provides a strong foundation in penal theory but also has a strong focus on actual practice. Author Karen Harrison draws on a number of interviews with people who work within or for agencies associated with the penal system, as well as accounts of prison visits that build a picture of current prison life. Packed with helpful features, Penology includes Spotlight profiles of the penal system in countries across the globe. The text also covers a range of specific offenders, examining not just white adult men but women offenders, children and ethnic minorities.This is essential reading for students in England and Wales studying penology, punishment and prisons at undergraduate or postgraduate level. It's also offers important insights for students of criminology, criminal justice, law and social science.
Karen Harrison is Professor of Law and Penal Justice, University of Lincoln, UK. Karen has been teaching criminology and penology in Law Schools for almost 20 years. Her specialist areas of research expertise are dangerous and sexual offences and offenders.
1. Introduction2. Punishment and the Foundations of Penal Theory3. Rethinking Penal Theory4. Sentencing5. Out-of-Court Disposals and Fines6. Community Penalties7. Prisons and the Use of Imprisonment8. The Prison Experience9. Release, Recall and Reintegration10. Dangerous Offenders11. Children and Young People12. Social Inequalities in Custody.
Karen Harrison presents a lucid and distinctive account of the major debates in penology. The book illustrates the diversity of disposals society imposes on those who offend. However, by drawing on best practice in the UK and elsewhere, readers are reminded that there are alternatives and that these may prove more effective and more humane. Students reading this work will come away informed and challenged.