What primary goal does a therapeutic community aim to achieve in jails?

A therapeutic community in a jail setting is designed to foster an environment where inmates can support each other, focusing on their rehabilitation and personal growth. This approach encourages peer interactions that are constructive and therapeutic, allowing inmates to share experiences and insights. The essence of a therapeutic community lies in the belief that individuals can benefit from a supportive peer network, which helps them address behavioral issues, build social skills, and develop a sense of accountability.

This communal support is crucial for promoting a sense of belonging and motivation to change, which ultimately contributes to lower recidivism rates and better reintegration into society upon release. While enhanced security, reduced staff workload, and limitations on inmate interactions are important factors in jail operations, the core mission of a therapeutic community is grounded in the relationships and mutual assistance among inmates, making peer support the fundamental goal.