Offender Perceptions of Incentives in Community Supervision

• In Event: Motivation for Change in Correctional Populations

Abstract

The use of incentives in community corrections as a tool to promote compliance with supervision conditions has gained popularity in recent years. Monetary rewards, certificates of achievements, good time credits, and relaxation of supervision conditions are just a few examples of incentives utilized by correctional agencies. A basic principle behind the use of incentives is that they must be meaningful in order to bring about behavioral change. This requires that judicial authorities and supervision officers have an understanding of the ways in which offenders perceive incentives. Utilizing survey data from probationers in a large Western state, this study examines how offenders view a variety of commonly utilized incentives. In addition, the research explores a number of demographic, attitudinal, and economic factors that influence these perceptions. Theoretical and policy implications of these findings are discussed.

Authors

• Eric Wodahl, University of Wyoming

• Brett Garland, Missouri State University