Comprehensive in scope and contemporary in perspective, this introduction to corrections in the U.S. covers the history, functions, types, and issues of jails and prisons. It explains parole and community-based corrections programs; surveys various aspects of corrections personnel; and explores the special issues of women and juveniles in relation to the system. Up-to-date material, and legal cases affecting correctional law and institutional corrections, provide students with broad coverage of both institutional and community corrections, probation, and parole.