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shock probation

a criminal sentence in which an offender is incarcerated for a brief period and then released into the community under the supervision of a parole or probation officer. This approach is typically used with juveniles or with first-time offenders who have committed less serious offenses, the theory being that such offenders may be capable of successful rehabilitation into society after they have experienced the initial shock of incarceration. Also called shock sentencing.

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Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

ecosystemic approach

ecosystemic approach

an approach to therapy that emphasizes the interaction between the individual or family and larger social contexts, such as schools, workplaces, and social agencies. The approach emphasizes interrelatedness and interdependency and derives from diverse fields, including psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, and political science. Family therapy in particular, has made use of this approach in designing interventions for complex families and systems. See also ecological systems theory. [developed in psychology by Urie Bronfenbrenner]