NCJ Number
80037
Journal
Evaluation and Program Planning Volume: 4 Issue: 2 Dated: (1981) Pages: 185-193
Date Published
1981
Length
9 pages
Annotation
Following a review of recent literature on correctional crowding, this paper presents findings, recommendations, and policy implications from a study of the impact of density in a juvenile correctional institution.
Abstract
Recent literature on correctional crowding consistently shows that such a condition produces stress-related effects in residents. The focal study examined the impact of overcrowding in a Tennessee juvenile correctional institution for delinquent boys 14 to 18 years old. The study design took advantage of an already overcrowded situation and endeavored to manipulate the population density downward by redirecting population intake into slightly less crowded areas of the institution. Two dormitories were selected on the basis of their representativeness in population, staffing pattern, and the likelihood of stable staffing over the 6 months of the study. The dorms were not made comparable through random assignment or any matching procedure because of administrative constrictions and population pressures. Three social densities (differing numbers of people in the same size space) were examined: high social density (44 or more residents in a dorm), medium social density (40 residents in a dorm), and low social density (35 or less residents in a dorm). Measures included periodic administration of the Correctional Institutions Environment Scale; a six-item sociometric rating of the dorm, its residents, and staff; ratings of residents by school teachers; biweekly measures of resident blood pressure; and a weekly summary of illness reports for each dorm. The clearest outcome of the study was that increasing social density affects the social environment. Disorganization, hostility, and disruption in the treatment programs of both dorms were evidenced. Recommendations and policy implications emphasize the priority that should be given to reducing institutional overcrowding. Graphic data and 16 references are provided.