Penology: Theory, Policy and Practice

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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.

Reviews

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. * Gavin Dingwall, De Montfort University, UK *
This book is an important text for those studying punishment. Looking at penology beyond imprisonment alone, the content of this book appropriately deals with penal theory and practice within the wider context of the criminal justice system as a whole. A welcome contribution is the writers encouragement of readers to think and question for themselves throughout, providing a very useful source for educators and students. * Helen Nichols, University of Lincoln, UK *

Author Bio

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.