Black Psychologist in Action - A Psychological Evaluation of the Adjustment Center Environment at San Quentin Prison

• NCJ Number: 76272
• Journal: Journal of Black Psychology Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: (February 1976) Pages: 75-82
• Author(s): T O Hilliard
• Date Published: 1976
• Length: 8 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Conditions in the Adjustment Center at San Quentin Prison in California are described, with emphasis on their adverse psychological effects on black inmates.

Abstract

The report was prepared by a member of a team of behavioral scientists who conducted independent examinations of the conditions at the center and their psychological impact on the inmates. The evaluation was called for after the six inmates filed suit against the prison, claiming that life in the center amounted to cruel and unusual punishment. Two inmates were interviewed and the center was toured. The inmates were living in 6 foot by 8 foot cells equipped with only a hard cot and a toilet. They complained of being constantly locked in chains and of being allowed only a brief indoor exercise period each day. Both inmates were under indeterminate sentences and suffered from not knowing how long they would have to remain imprisoned and from not having any specific program leading to their release. One inmate spoke of vulnerability to the prison guards' arbitrary decisions and whims and cited numerous examples of brutality. The inmate experienced constant fear of being provoked into action that would cause an extension of his incarceration. In addition, inmates were forced to undergo humiliating body cavity searches upon their return to the center from interview areas. Moreover, only 1 hour per week was allowed for visits from family and friends. It was concluded that both the physical environment and the psychological climate were overwhelmingly negative and antagonistic to effective rehabilitation. It was also concluded that the conditions were hostile and conducive to feelings of bitterness, frustration, and despair. In December 1975 a judge agreed with the investigator's finding that center confinement amounted to cruel and unusual punishment and thus violated the inmates' constitutional rights. Footnotes are included.