NCJ Number
162333
Journal
International Journal of Drug Policy Volume: 6 Issue: 2 Dated: (1995) Pages: 106-111
Date Published
1995
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article examines the validity of claims justifying the random drug testing of prison inmates.
Abstract
It has been claimed that random urinalysis programs for prison inmates will result in a decrease in drug use, a decrease in the violence related to drug use, and a decrease in the violence associated with drug trafficking in institutions. Findings indicate that random urinalysis programs result in inmates switching from drugs that are detectable for a long time to those which are either not detectable by urinalysis or are only detectable for a short time. It is unlikely that the program will reduce the violence associated with drug use and drug trafficking, because drugs least likely to be associated with violence will be replaced by drugs more likely to be associated with aggressive behavior. In addition, a drug-testing program will have negative consequences in that it will lower inmates¦ morale and produce an increased level of mistrust and alienation between staff and inmates. The article includes suggested alternative actions to achieve a balance between the liberty of inmates and the protection of society. References