Expansion of Probation in Saskatchewan: Effects of the Practices of Probation Officers
Date
1990-04
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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ORCID
Type
Degree Level
Masters
Abstract
The present study was a historical analysis of the
expansion of probation in Saskatchewan from 1946 to 1978. The
purpose was to examine the effect that the practices of
probation officers' had on the expansion of this program.
Based on Cohen's professional interests model, it was
argued that probation officers caused probation to expand
because of their own interests. The primary mechanism was
classification. It is believed by most that a professional's
knowledge enabled them to best decide where offenders should
be placed. An important effect of classification is
iatrogenic feedback loops. This refers to the continual
creation of new programs to accommodate offenders not already
reached or to 'save' others from the damaging effects of the
previous system.
It was pointed out, however, that professional growth is
limited by professionals within the system, specifically
judges, lawyers, and police officers. The effect of the
political economic context and community associations on
probation expansion also needs to be taken into consideration.
Numerous government documents and archival papers were
collected and a content analysis was conducted. The documents
pertaining to probation officers were analyzed according to
themes indicating their desire to expand the program. The
documents relating to the other groups were analyzed according
to statements indicating their support of the program. The
result of the analysis indicated that probation officers were
interested in expanding probation and were supported in their
efforts by the other groups. A historical account was then
given of the expansion of probation from 1946 to 1978.
The findings of the present study indicate that, although
probation officers were not solely responsible for the
expansion of probation, they did play an important role.
Their influence on
underestimated.
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Citation
Degree
Master of Arts (M.A.)
Department
Sociology
Program
Sociology