NCJ Number
218572
Date Published
2007
Length
222 pages
Annotation
This book provides a detailed analysis of the psychosocial experience of imprisonment for young men within the custodial setting of HM YOI Feltham, a remand center in London, England and aims to understand the supportive transactions between staff and prisoners.
Abstract
Transition into prison was a difficult experience for the prisoners. The prisoners needed a number of psychological resources in order to cope with this transitional period. Although there were common experiences at this early entry phase, individuals differed in the level of psychological distress these experiences caused. Adaptation was a dynamic. An important concept that emerged was locus of control. Individuals who had an internal locus of control were less distressed on entering prison. It could be suggested that individuals who entered prison with internal locus of control brought about a higher degree of control. Understanding the early stage of imprisonment is of major importance to policymakers and practitioners, given that the first month in prison is in general a period of high risk for suicidal behavior. Funded by a 3-year studentship from the Economic and Social Research Council and a 3-year award from the Isaac Newton Trust, this book explains how young men make the transition to prison life and how they adapt practically, socially, and psychologically. Specifically, throughout the seven chapters, the book examines the questions: (1) how do they fit in at the custodial setting of HM YOI Feltham; (2) why do some survive prison better than others; (3) can they feel supported by staff; (4) how do they interact with fellow prisoners; (5) can they make supportive friendships or are their experiences marked solely by negative intimidating interactions; (6) how can staff and peers help them and encourage them to accept the help; (7) what happens when they become too distressed and cannot cope; and (8) what leads some of them to harm themselves? These questions are answered by entering the physical, social, and political worlds of HM YOI Feltham in London, England. Tables, figures, references and appendix