NCJ Number
84411
Date Published
1980
Length
155 pages
Annotation
This study examined the environment at the State Prison of Southern Michigan in order to determine causes underlying increased rates of health care use.
Abstract
Cell environment can influence health care demand. Long periods of confinement in cells where prisoners are unable to possess personal belongings produced radically different behavior and more health care demands. Cells with little privacy were associated with health problems. The total prison environment breeds diseases that are linked to emotional problems (gastrointestinal complaints) and close quarters (respiratory ailments). Inmates' free world habits and socioeconomic conditions also influence overall health status of incoming prisoners. Implications of these findings for correctional management are included. Chapter notes, study data, a glossary, and about 50 references are provided.