NCJ Number
111149
Date Published
1988
Length
204 pages
Annotation
Structured interviews with 133 inmates in penitentiaries in Ontario, Canada were conducted to ascertain how male prison inmates cope with their environment.
Abstract
The interviews gathered information on background factors and attitudes, on inmates' behaviors and problems before being charged with their current offense, and on their behaviors and problems in prison. Inmates also completed questionnaires focusing on emotional adjustment and cognitive states. Official records provided additional information. The analysis showed that the interaction of external and internal factors determines individual behavior. Many inmates experienced severe distress at the beginning of a prison term, but imprisonment did not produce much generalized or lasting emotional disturbance. However, some individuals continued to be disturbed even well into their prison terms. In addition, the data showed very little positive behavioral change in prison. Prison thus represents a unique environment with effects that are as varied as those of any major life change on a disparate group of individuals. Prisons did not affect coping abilities, thereby freezing prisoners both behaviorally and developmentally. Findings indicate the need for major changes in what inmates experience in prison. They need programs to teach coping skills and more attention on transferring new skills to life on the outside after release. Until this happens, the effects of prisons will be small and recidivism will be high. Tables, appended study instruments and consent forms, and author and subject indexes.