NCJ Number
97016
Date Published
1982
Length
189 pages
Annotation
A critical introduction to British prisons, this book examines the nature and extent of imprisonment, prison types, the situation of prisoners, and particular issues and controversies in the adult prison system.
Abstract
In British prisons, inmate treatment and training, despite their official emphasis, have been subordinated to custodial demands. A small minority of prisoners (troublemakers, subversives, and recalcitrants) require a disproportionately large amount of human and financial resources to implement the policy of containment. The definition of troublesome behavior as a medical problem in need of a medical solution represents a new and potentially sinister development in the logic of containment. It is another step toward individualizing and neutralizing nonconformist behavior in prisons. As a result, an examination of the logic of control and its impact on prison life becomes more remote. New prison technology can further alienate prison officers and prisoners by depersonalizing their already difficult relationship. The commitment of the uniformed staff to containment policies is an effective barrier not only to any extension of their role beyond that of custodian, but also to the introduction of more enlightened management strategies. Prison reform should focus primarily on reducing the prison population and eliminating dehumanizing conditions. A 50-item bibliography is provided.