NCJ Number
75252
Date Published
1977
Length
31 pages
Annotation
Results are reported from an initial assessment of inmate and staff perceptions of the social environment of the Memphis Correctional Center (MCC) in Tennessee.
Abstract
A total of 147 inmates and 59 staff were administered Form R of the Correctional Institutions Environment Scale to obtain respondents' opinions on 'Relationship' dimensions, personal development or 'Treatment Program' dimensions, and 'System Maintenance' or administrative structure dimensions. A standard score profile interpretation of the data was accomplished by obtaining a scale score for each of the nine subscales. Scale scores were averaged separately for residents and staff and converted to standard scores based on the normative data established for adult programs. Results showed a high positive environmental assessment by both staff and inmates. Both groups scored well above average on all subscales but 'Staff Control.' Overall, more similarity between staff and residents was seen in the 'Treatment' dimension, while greater disparities were noted in the dimensions of 'Relationship' and 'System Maintenance.' It is recommended that this initial assessment phase be immediately followed by the next three phases: (1) feedback, whereby staff and inmates are apprised of the outcome of this social environment study; (2) planning, if indicated after responses from feedback; and (3) reassessment and/or replication of this study after some designated time lapse. References from a literature review and tabular and graphic data are provided.