Debunking the Myths of American Corrections: An Exploratory Analysis

Critical Criminology: An International Journal, Vol. 20, No. 4, 2012, pp. 409-427

19 Pages Posted: 18 Apr 2014

See all articles by Jeffrey Ian Ross

Jeffrey Ian Ross

University of Baltimore - School of Law

Date Written: May 15, 2012

Abstract

This article briefly reviews the literature on the myths of corrections and then identifies sixteen of the most prominent misrepresentations about jails, prisons, correctional workers, and convicts in the United States. It then systematically examines the reality of each. The article uses scholarly research, governmental and news reports, and personal experience of former inmates to cast doubt on many of the myths that have been developed. It argues that most of the misrepresentations about corrections can be called into question.

Keywords: myths, urban legends, corrections, jails, prisons, correctional workers, convicts, misconceptions, misrepresentations, misinformation

JEL Classification: K14, K19, K39, K49, L89

Suggested Citation

Ross, Jeffrey Ian, Debunking the Myths of American Corrections: An Exploratory Analysis (May 15, 2012). Critical Criminology: An International Journal, Vol. 20, No. 4, 2012, pp. 409-427, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2426331

Jeffrey Ian Ross (Contact Author)

University of Baltimore - School of Law ( email )

1420 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21218
United States

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