Organization Models Within the Correctional System There

Organization Models

Within the correctional system there are three different organization models which apply and are used in administrative and management purposes. These models include the authoritarian model, bureaucratic model and participative model. The paper will give a description of each of these three models as they apply to the correctional environments. It will also discuss the intended goals of the correctional administrations that utilize these models and the specific time period the models were developed as well as finding out if these models were effective during the period which they were developed. The information the paper will give the foundation of the correctional systems as well as the models that are found within in and if these models are still in effect now. The operations of a correctional facility are under these models in order to provide the in mates with a particular type of security and care. With these models in place in a correctional facility their operations are different depending on the specific type of model that is being used. The advantages and disadvantages of these models also vary and hence have to be looked into since they have become the reason as to why the models are used within particular correctional systems.

Each and every facility is different, therefore, this means that they can not all use the same model. They have to use a model that best fits the correctional environment and will be beneficial to them .This will therefore lead to the discussion on what model is the most efficient one in a correctional setting as well as examples of these models that are used in the correctional systems.

Authoritarian model

The Authoritarian models are those that make all decisions regardless of the input of other members. They are an authoritative figure hence dictate directions to other people at the same time leaving them in the dark regarding any future intentions or plans. This is usually characterized by presence of strong leaders, prison environment with a firm control and harsh discipline of the inmates as well as the staff who do not acquiescence themselves with the central authority that is in place (Salinas, 2009). This model in correctional systems was very prevalent in the United States as from the colonial period up until the 1900's.this style is highly centralized that it creates a regimented environment that has a consistent application of rules that are meant for all people. It funnels the entire process of making decisions to the central power figure even if some of the decisions are better of made at a lower level.in this model other staff are denied the experience of making decisions and lead to the creation of an arbitrary and capricious system which is prone to corruption ( Carlson, Garret,.&Christopher,2010).

Bureaucratic model

This model revolves around a strict and hierarchical system however it is not focusses entirely on one particular dominating authority. Flows in the organization are controlled through the hierarchy with a very strict chain of command as well as a formal communication process. The rules and regulations meant for the correctional environment are precisely written down. Within the facility there are clear set of standards and procedures in place ( Salinas, 2009). The practical benefit attached to this model is that the correctional system does not entirely depend on one or two individuals and therefore there can be an easy promotion or substitution of personnel.at the same time the policy parameters that are emphasized within this management structure are quite clear for all parties meaning that the staff are help accountable if they do not comply with the expectations that have been written down.one negative side of this model is that written rules are not a guarantee that there will be consistent enforcement and hence they are not helpful in each and every situation that presents itself within the system. Bureaucratic processes are often quite slow in their response to change and hence are not encouraging to staff when it comes to their demonstration of new initiatives that are to be presented at any of the levels within the organization (Carlson, Garret, & Christopher, 2010).

Participative model

This model of management is normally quite democratic and open as compared to the authoritarian and bureaucratic models. However it is not quite effective in dealing with crisis situations that are fast moving. The model allows and is often dependent on the input of the staff regarding how the organization is supposed to be run.in some experiments inmates have been given an opportunity to give their feedback as well. The main assumption in this model is that the correctional goals as well as the agency are accomplished more efficiently when the entire members of staff have taken part in reaching a consensus on the action that will be taken (Salinas, 2009). This participative model gives staff an increased sense of ownership when it comes to the planning and implementation of operations which leads to better attitudes toward and the support of routine events as well as new initiatives. However, formal, open discussions and negotiations as well as the collective participation within the institution are often termed as time consuming. This is because a lot of time will be taken to get the involved people to the discussions and most of all take a lot of time in coming to a conclusion.it is often very difficult for many people to come to a consensus easily and very fast without any form of disagreements and taking the last possible time (Carlson, Garret,.&Christopher,2010).