NCJ Number
191403
Journal
American Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 25 Issue: 2 Dated: Spring 2001 Pages: 269-277
Editor(s)
William G. Doerner
Date Published
2001
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article explores the issue of homosexual behavior in a female correctional facility.
Abstract
The population studied was females in a correctional facility located in the South. The method utilized was a questionnaire. This questionnaire consisted of questions concerning consensual sexual behavior while incarcerated. Separate questions addressed demographic characteristics as well sexual preference before incarceration. According to this study, the key components of an inmate’s decision to engage in homosexual relationships included: prior homosexual behavior, age, and the amount of time served. Younger inmates tended to engage in this type of behavior more often as a way of obtaining emotional stability as well as adapting to the harsh reality of prison life. Other women, who were serving longer sentences, engaged in this activity to escape their feelings of loneliness. According to the authors, there needs to be further exploration into this topic. Tables, references