Adult Prisons and Prisoners in England and Wales 1970-1982: A Review of the Findings of Social Research

• NCJ Number: 118285
• Author(s): J Mott
• Date Published: 1985
• Length: 79 pages
• Corporate Author: Great Britain Home Office
• Sale Source: Great Britain Home Office
• Publication Type: Survey (Cross-Cultural)
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom
• Note: Home Office Research Study No. 84

Annotation

Social science research on prisons and prisoners in England and Wales between 1970 and 1982 has been sparse and fragmented and has emphasized the individual characteristics and behavior of prisoners rather than the operation and management of prisons.

Abstract

Almost all the research relates to males and has focused on three main themes: the reconviction rates related to particular prisons or programs, the lasting psychological effects of imprisonment, and the prediction of major breakdowns in control within prisons. Findings have shown that none of the special programs has had significant effects on recidivism. In addition, about one-third of the male inmate population between 1966 and 1977 were found to have impaired social functioning or mental disorders before reaching prison. However, no evidence was found regarding intellectual deterioration in long-term incarceration. Furthermore, catastrophe theory has not been useful in predicting major prison disturbances. Further research should focus on prison management, how it actually operates, and effects of various approaches on inmate behavior and management. Additional research recommendations and 132 references.