Perceptions of the Criminal Justice System

The present study examines the perceptions of pre-parolees (inmates), parole officers, and parole supervisors to determine how each group perceives certain components of the criminal justice system. Participants were asked to rate six criminal justice concepts using a Semantic Differential. The data analysis focuses on ratings of the various concepts, for each participating group. The findings indicate that there are systematic differences in the ways that the various groups perceive the system. These disparities have implications for the treatment relationship, for the working relationship between parole officer and supervisor, and for a parolee's self-concept. The data are suggestive of difficulties confronting parole officers and parolees early in the parole relationship which is a point at which the parolee may be particularly vulnerable to recidivism. It is recommended that perceptual disparities be reduced, but the steps necessary to achieve this may exceed present expectations of parole system part...