The Hawkspur Experiment

This book recounts the author's leadership of a voluntary Borstal Institution from 1936 to 1940, highlighting innovative penal treatment methods and the impact of a non-punitive approach on young delinquents.

"The Hawkspur Experiment," originally published in 1941, offers a compelling account of a unique voluntary Borstal Institution led by the author from 1936 to 1940. The book gained renewed interest upon its reissue in 1967 due to its foundational ideas that anticipated many modern approaches to penal treatment. It goes beyond mere theoretical concepts, showcasing practical applications of innovative methods that were emerging at the time.

The narrative challenges the prevailing belief that strict discipline was essential for correcting young men with delinquent behaviors. Instead, the author presents a more nuanced perspective, emphasizing the importance of therapeutic communities, group therapy, and the involvement of inmates in their own treatment. While these concepts were not yet formally defined, the book provides a clear insight into the evolving trends in addressing the needs of delinquent and maladjusted individuals, all conveyed in accessible language.

In addition to its social relevance, "The Hawkspur Experiment" recounts a captivating experience that stands on its own merits. The dialogue between Alec Paterson and David Wills highlights the experiment's innovative approach, as Wills embarked on the challenge of running the institution without resorting to punishment. Readers are invited to evaluate his success in this endeavor. A noteworthy aspect of this edition is the exploration of the future lives of the boys who attended Hawkspur, adding depth to the narrative and illustrating the long-term impact of the experiment.