NCJ Number
121759
Date Published
1989
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Because imprisonment is not an isolated experience, this review of New Zealand prisons considers the social effects of incarceration on inmates, their families, and prison staff.
Abstract
Imprisonment is a negative experience that arouses feelings of resentment, frustration, and powerlessness and that causes a loss of respect and individuality. Many inmates refer to the strain of living so closely together, the complete lack of privacy, and the "mind games" played. Another common inmate complaint concerns the uncertainty and inconsistency of rights and obligations associated with prison life. Probably the most serious social consequence for many prisoners is the enforced separation from family. Virtually every inmate family is financially and emotionally disadvantaged, and those with children often find themselves in extremely difficult economic circumstances. Prison staff spend their working lives in a confrontational situation. They are frequently called upon to deal with cases of suicide, self-mutilation, or mental disturbance. Families of prison staff must deal with officers' personal stress, accept irregular work hours, live in fear of the officer being assaulted, and possibly suffer personal harassment. It is suggested that maintaining and strengthening family ties for both inmates and staff be an important objective of prison reform. 2 references.