On 'Demons' and 'Gaols' - A Summary and Review of Investigations Concerning the Psychological Problems of Jail Prisoners (From Mental Health Services in Local Jails - Report of a Special National Workshop, P 14-33, 1982, Christopher S Dunn and Henry J Steadman, ed. - See NCJ-85919)

• NCJ Number: 85920
• Author(s): J J Gibbs
• Date Published: 1982
• Length: 20 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Available on microfiche as NCJ-85919

Annotation

This review of existing studies of psychological and behavioral pathology in jails argues for improved methodology and increased research into the nature of stresses faced by those incarcerated to ultimately enhance the psychological survival chances of susceptible individuals within these institutions.

Abstract

Studies attempting to assess the proportion of mentally ill persons entering jail have produced widely differing estimates (from 14 to 44 percent) based on prior hospitalizations. Data on those marked for psychological observation upon entry also produce varying estimates. Furthermore, studies on the proportion of the total jail population experiencing psychological difficulties under confinement fail to separate people who enter jails with problems from those whose problems emerge as a consequence of confinement. Studies of self-injury by jail inmates are important because of the frequency of self-destructive behavior in jail and the insights self-destructive individuals have provided researchers into the problems and pressures experienced by jail inmates. However, such investigations have been characterized by small sample size, restricted definitions of self-injury, and emphasis on demographic characteristics. Most of this research has tended to overlook the system-individual interactions and comparisons with control samples of the general jail population. The need is for a survey of the Nation's jail populations based on scientific sampling techniques, consistent definitions across jurisdictions, and reliable assessment instruments. Research questions should focus on the impact jail has on different types of people under specific circumstances. Accurate recordkeeping by jail personnel is needed so that efforts to ameliorate jail conditions can be based on adequate and pertinent information. A total of 36 references are given.