How did the term corrections evolve?

The term "corrections" originally referred to the process of correcting or reforming individuals who had committed offenses. It evolved in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the establishment of more structured prison systems and rehabilitation programs, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment. Today, "corrections" encompasses a range of practices, including incarceration, probation, and parole, aimed at managing offenders and reducing recidivism within the justice system. The focus has increasingly shifted towards restorative justice and social reintegration.