Youth Development Unit program at Garner Correctional Institution: Methodology, Findings and Conclusions

• In Event: Posters I

Abstract

This research evaluates the Youth Development Unit program at Garner Correctional Institution located in Newtown, Connecticut. The inmates accepted into the YDU are held in "close custody" in a specialized housing unit where they are segregated from the general population. The program has two main goals namely, gang renunciation and getting GEDs. This evaluation focuses on average time of progression from Phase 1 to Phase 5, participant background characteristics, and post release outcomes. It explores behavioral and academic challenges from the perspective of custodial and educational staff. Findings highlight the importance of emotional and psychological restructuring being integral to academic motivation especially behind bars.

Authors

• Divya Sharma, Western Connecticut State University

• Kim Marino, Western Connecticut State University