Faith-based prisons: Is there sufficient evidence of their success to support a case for the development of an Australian trial? Adam Jones. (2010). Crime 3001 -- Crime and Punishment. Adelaide, South Australia: Flinders University Law School.

To frame my discussion of the role and efficacy of faith-based prisons, I consider the history of religion in prisons. I consider this to be an important aspect of this paper because religion as an instrument of rehabilitation in prisons is not a new idea.

I will then consider prisoner demographics, that is, who we are sending to prison. What were their personal circumstances before entering prison? Understanding prisoner demographics allows for program designs that attempt to address the static & dynamic risks that a prisoner faces upon their release.

There is some evidence to suggest that rehabilitation programs which incorporate a focus on addressing static risks such as improving education, building functional friendships and support networks, achieve positive outcomes in reducing rates of recidivism.

Another component that is required for successful rehabilitation programs is assisting a prisoner to address the dynamic risks, or those which can be changed. For example, having a mentor prior to their release may assist the prisoner to secure suitable identification, to receive a welfare payment and open a bank account. Then upon their release, assist with finding accommodation and reintegration into social activities.

I will also briefly visit some cost considerations of running these sorts of prisons, because if the programs require a greater financial investment than current programs it may affect their suitability to the Australian environment.

Download, "Faith-based prisons: Is there sufficient evidence of their success to support a case for the development of an Australian trial?" Adam Jones. (2010). Crime 3001 -- Crime and Punishment. Adelaide, South Australia: Flinders University Law School.