NCJ Number
200664
Journal
The Prison Journal Volume: 83 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2003 Pages: 149-170
Date Published
June 2003
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This article profiles inmates’ perceptions of institutional change.
Abstract
Correctional systems are most often static and highly regimented institutions. This article details the context under which one Midwestern State converted a minimum-security prison to a gang-free facility. Several different approaches were taken by this State in attempting to respond to the influx of gang members into the State's correctional system. The State converted four minimum-security institutions into gang-free facilities over a single long weekend. Transfer to the gang-free facility was mandatory for inmates classified as minimum-security prisoners with no gang affiliation. Corrections staff members noticed that the inmates assigned to the gang-free facility, following conversion, were older and more articulate with more medical conditions and mental problems. Addressing inmates’ perceptions of change, the author organized focus groups to talk to inmates concerning the prison environment following the change over to a gang-free facility. Focus group results indicate that two dimensions of personal control, choice and predictability, influenced inmates’ acceptance of major institutional environment change. Notes, references