Submitted by ghobdy on 12/14/2008 04:52 PM Flag This Paper
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Vocational training is essential to rehabilitation as well as the reduction of recidivism rates. In order to reintroduce inmates into society it is paramount that we give them a foundation to build upon. Nearly 70% of inmates entering prison have not graduated from high school. Very few a have any marketable occupational skills. Because of this many inmates find it difficult to find jobs upon their release. If a prisoner can learn skills and gain education while incarcerated they become less likely to return to a life of crime and become more likely to become self-sufficient members of society with increase of gainful employment opportunities.
In recent years jails and prisons have become overcrowded. Burdened by what seems to be a revolving door system where inmates released just to be re-arrested and re-incarcerated later. Because prisons have become little more than storage houses for criminals it is no wonder that there is very little concern for their education and job skills training. With cost of housing one inmate for one year ranging between $20,000 and $40,000 all of which is paid by the tax payer it would seem crazy to continue this pattern. Vocational training for inmates provides them the opportunity to help themselves by legitimate occupation options and self confidence. It seems obvious that in the long run it costs less to educate an inmate rather than to continue to let them drain the tax payer repeatedly.
There may be many people that would argue against criminals being entitled to education and vocational training programs. To these people I would say that denying the right to these programs will only serve to perpetuate a declining correctional system. Lack of education and training leads to lack of opportunity and frustration which are key components of crime. However, by educating an inmate you can change their potential for legitimate employment opportunities.
References:
Schmalleger and Smykla. Corrections in the 21st century....