Lecture 10: Parole

Question 1

Parole vs Probation [4]

Answer 1

• Parole: After serving part of a sentence in prison.
• Probation: Alternative to prison (for minor or first-time offenses).
• Both involve conditions to follow in the community.
• Supervised by a parole/probation officer.

Question 2

[3] Purposes of Parole

Answer 2

• Aims to rehabilitate offenders and reintegrate them into society.
• High supervision to ensure compliance.
• Can be revoked if conditions are broken.

Question 3

Parole Facts [3]

Answer 3

• Does not reduce sentence length—still serves time under supervision.
• Not automatic—60% of first-time full parole applications are denied.
• Most parolees successfully complete their sentence.

Question 4

Role of Victims in Parole [3]

Answer 4

• Can present statements to the Parole Board regarding safety concerns.
• Can remain in contact with the Parole Board for updates.
• Can attend hearings and request written decisions.

Question 5

[5] Parole Decision-Making Factors

Answer 5

• Risk factors: Criminal history, substance use, behavior in prison.
• Social factors: Employment, relationships, support system.
• Expert opinions: Psychologists, correctional officers.
• Victim input: Statements and concerns.
• Release plan: Stability and feasibility.

Question 6

What type of information did parole board members tend to access most frequently, and least frequently in the Gobeil & Serin (2009) study?

Answer 6

1. Risk assessment (most)
2. Rehabilitation programs
3. Release plan
4. Criminal history
5. Mental health
6. Victim statements (least)

Question 7

Parole Board Decision Process (Gobeil & Serin Study) - [3] Findings

Answer 7

• Risk assessments were accessed the most.
• Victim and mental health info accessed less often.
• Led to an empirically based decision-making framework.

Question 8

How does the Structured Parole Decision-Making Framework aim to improve parole decisions? [3]

Answer 8

• By classifying risk factors as aggravating, mitigating, or neutral.
• No automatic “yes” or “no” for parole—focuses on defensible reasoning.
• Reduces recidivism

Question 9

[6] Challenges for Parolees

Answer 9

• Returning to old environments.
• Rebuilding family and social connections.
• Adjusting to life outside prison.
• Financial struggles and employment barriers.
• Facing stigma.
• Understanding and following parole conditions.

Question 10

Public Confidence in Parole [2]

Answer 10

• Public trust in the justice system is essential.
• Cognitive deficit model: People lack information about crime and justice, leading to misconceptions.