A Formulative Evaluation Of Washington Prison Animal Programs

"With the ever-growing prison population in the United States, it is imperative to continue to examine programs that may foster reductions in recidivism rates. In the minimal observatory studies that have been conducted on animal programs in prison, it has been concluded that these programs have a positive effect on the inmates, prison environment, the animals, and the community. Implementations of these programs are in place nationwide, but thorough research and evaluation of methods and outcomes of these programs remain scarce. The purpose of this thesis is to gather data through interviews about the personal and community impacts of such programs by questioning formerly incarcerated individuals who successfully completed a prison animal program at a correctional facility in Washington State. The goal of the analysis is to understand the current benefits of prison animal programs to assist in future implementations"--Abstract

The book looks at prison-based animal programs, an innovative approach to rehabilitation that draws on the benefits of human-animal interactions. Analyzing a national survey of these programs and presenting in-depth case studies, it discusses the mechanisms that transform prisoners' lives and reduce the chances of recidivism. It proposes a correctional programming idea that promises to benefit inmates, animals, and communities.

This eBook can be downloaded at http://www.avidscience.com/book/top-5-contributions-on-social-political-sciences/

The Sustainability in Prisons Project is a partnership between The Evergreen State College and the Washington State Department of Corrections. Our mission is to bring science and nature into prisons. We conduct ecological research and conserve biodiversity by forging collaborations with scientists, inmates, prison staff, students, and community partners. Equally important, we help reduce the environmental, economic, and human costs of prisons by inspiring and informing sustainable practices.