What is the primary objective of an inmate orientation program?

The primary objective of an inmate orientation program is to inform inmates about facility rules and available resources. This educational component is crucial because it helps inmates understand the structure and regulations of the correctional environment, fostering compliance and safety within the facility. Knowledge of the rules promotes a more orderly environment, reduces behavioral issues, and aids in the integration of inmates into the correctional system. Additionally, by informing inmates about available resources, such as educational programs, rehabilitation services, healthcare, and mental health support, they can better navigate their time in the facility and work toward personal improvement and successful reintegration into society upon release.

The other options, while potentially relevant to different aspects of inmate management, do not serve as the primary focus of orientation programs. Preparing inmates for parole hearings or assessing educational backgrounds are specialized activities that may occur later in the correctional timeline, and providing entertainment options is not a fundamental goal of the orientation itself.