Pubdate: Tue, 26 Apr 2005
Source: Kansas City Star (MO)
Copyright: 2005 The Kansas City Star
Contact:  http://www.kcstar.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/221
Author: Joe Lambe
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/prison.htm (Incarceration)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/women.htm (Women)

SEARCH FOR ANSWERS GROWS TO HELP WOMEN IN PRISON

Classes, Counseling And Parole Services Could Get Emphasis

A 2003 nationwide study that documented unfair treatment caused by
gender differences between prisoners has started a spreading search for
solutions.

Julie Boehm, who oversees women's programs for the Missouri Department
of Corrections, said a state study will lead to programs geared to
women.

"We're in the beginning stages of looking at data on why women go back
to prison," she said. "We're trying to do a better job of helping
them, preparing them and giving them the tools."

She is working with professor Kristi Holsinger at the University of
Missouri-Kansas City and with the National Institute of Corrections to
create a new assessment system for women.

That would include formulas used to determine everything from who is
eligible for prison perks to parole dates.

Currently, the formulas are the same for men and women. Experts say
that should change.

Those actions fit with recommendations from the national study, which
include:

. Given lower risk of violence, consider community alternatives to
prison with drug treatment and parole services that include children
and family.

. Develop procedures and programs that apply to women and their
different pathways into crime. These should include education, career
counseling and parenting skills.

Professor Barbara Bloom of Sonoma State University in Rohnert Park,
Calif., was the project director for the national study and one of its
three authors.

It will take the nation about a decade to change approaches to women
behind bars, Bloom said, and the new efforts should be carefully studied.

If they work, she said, there are those who envision them spreading to
men.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin