Parole as Institutional Control: A Test of Specific Deterrence and Offender Misconduct

Abstract

The use of parole as an institutional control mechanism is designed to reward inmate conformity with early release and punish nonconformity with continued confinement. Although much research has examined factors affecting parole board decisions, little research has focused on the control function of the parole decision. The present study, using deterrence theory, analyzes 233 offenders at the offender board review to determine the impact of the board's decision on offender misconduct. Results show lower rates of postreview misconduct for offenders denied parole hearings compared to offenders granted parole hearings. Furthermore, deterrence was strongest for high-and medium-rate offenders who were denied parole hearings. However, misconduct also decreased for high-rate offenders who were granted parole hearings. The authors recommend that correctional administrators consider the importance of parole as a mechanism for controlling institutional behavior among incarcerated inmates.