Education Programs in Prisons as a Valid Form of Rehabilitation essays

Education Programs in Prisons as a Valid Form of Rehabilitation essays Education is the most important form of rehabilitation for inmates. Although prison is often seen as a place of punishment, the public must look into the future at these individuals are released into society. While offering inmates a chance to improve while they are incarcerated, we are doing what we can to create a better life for all. Statistics indicate that when prisoners are provided an education, they gain higher self-esteem and recidivism rates drop dramatically. This is solution works for everyone. This paper will examine the effects that receiving a higher education has on inmates as well as society. According to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, there is an "inverse relationship between recidivism rates and education" (Open Society Institute). In fact, the higher the level of education a prisoner receives, the less likely he or she is to return to prison. For instance, studies indicate that approximately 60 to 75 percent of inmates who receive higher education experience a better rate of employment than those who do not participate in education programs. The Open Society Institute also states that "financial and societal savings of providing an inmate higher education are enormous" (Open Society Institute). When an inmate is released, says the Institute, "the cost-benefit of reducing recidivism will begin to be realized immediately. If we consider the additional benefit of this individual obtaining work, paying taxes, and contributing to the general economy, and the prevention of costs to victims of crime and the criminal justice system, the benefits are significantly greater" (Open Society Institute). In addition, while individuals are in prison receiving a higher education, life behind bars is easier as well. The Institute reports that the learning environment has a "stabilizing influence" on the prison environment which allows a facility to operate smoothly wi...