NCJ Number
235947
Date Published
September 2011
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study reports on the validation of a brief measure of social climate in two Australian prisons using the Essen Climate Evaluation Schema (EssenCES).
Abstract
This paper presents a validation of the EssenCES measure of prison social climates; results suggest that the EssenCES measure is suitable for use in further investigations of prison social climate. Findings identified the EssenCES measure as a viable means for which the social climate of a prison or prison unit can be assessed on an annual basis to determine changes over time, standards and targets set, and the need for additional resources or interventions. A total of 253 people (109 staff members and 144 prisoners) at 2 correctional facilities in 1 Australian jurisdiction rated the social climate of the prison in which they lived or worked. Factor analysis of the ratings provided support for the structure identified by the measure developers: inmates' social cohesion and mutual support, hold and support, and experienced safety. A small but significant positive association between prisoner scores on the social climate measure and a measure of readiness to engage with offender programs suggested some degree of convergent validity, as was the moderate, significant positive association observed between staff scores on the EssenCES measure and staff stress and morale measures. This established baseline against which changes over time can be assessed along with the identification of particular aspects of the climate that are potentially counter-therapeutic and can thus provide a rationale for the introduction of measures that can bring about change in social climate in settings where concerns exist about a particular unit or institution. This research further supports the idea that the social climate of a prison can influence rehabilitative outcomes. Recommendations are detailed. Tables and references