Work

Support and control: Individualised supervision work during gradual release in Finland

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This article examines how supervision work during gradual release from prison in Finland contributes to the individualisation of punishment. Drawing on interviews with prison and community sanction officials, it demonstrates how probation and parole are understood as client-centred practices aimed at supporting social integration, with emphasis on individual planning, trust, and participatory cooperation instead of punitive control. Despite institutional reforms introducing efficiency targets and risk management, we argue that the supervision of gradual release in Finland continues to reflect social work values and orientations, even amid resource constraints and tightening penal policies.

Source: Probation Journal

DOI: 10.1177/02645505261429057

Authors: Jukka Könönen, Emma Villman

Institutions: University of Helsinki, Tampere University

Language: English

Topic: Criminal Justice and Penology

Subfield: Law

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650