NCJ Number
114149
Journal
British Journal of Criminology Volume: 28 Issue: 3 Dated: (Summer 1988) Pages: 357-377
Date Published
1988
Length
21 pages
Annotation
The interactions of prison staff and prisoners in five British prisons were studied, leading to the observation that the prison experience is a tactical game between jailer and prisoner.
Abstract
The researchers spent approximately 300 person days in observation within the prisons, encouraging prisoners and prison staff to talk about their subjective experiences. A high proportion of the prisoners and staff characterized prison life as 'games played in the head.' Both prisoners and staff spoke of the boredom and repetition of prison life. Attending to basic body functions becomes a game of permissions and waiting for permission. Staff must develop skill in interpersonal relations to survive in association games. Passing decisions up the hierarchical ladder can cause problems for staff working closely with the prisoners. Searching, being searched, and smuggling contraband into prison can also take the form of a game. Prisoners and guards can also play a deadly game of 'call my bluff' in physical confrontations. The game metaphor characterizes many aspects of the prisoner-guard relationship. A glossary explains British prison terms and slang. 16 references.