A generic program is simply a basic program that is not specific to an offender’sindividual crime or need. The question that becomes a topic of discussion is if generic programscould fit many different offenders’ needs? Without changes being made with the program eachtime an offender enters into a rehabilitation program then it would not always address eachoffender’s specific needs. Depending on the need, the individual and the crime committed; eachoffender’s need would differ. Therefore, their experiences while in treatment will be different aswell.For example, mental health issues are common within the jail and prison systems(Gideon& Sung, 2011). The need for specific treatment to increase successful rehabilitation wouldrequire a specific program to accommodate that category needs. According to James, D andGlaze, J.; Jail inmates had the highest rate of symptoms of a mental health disorder (60%),followed by State (49%), and Federal prisoners (40%). Symptoms of a mental health disorder
