NCJ Number
131459
Date Published
1989
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This literature review, conducted by the Canada Correctional Service, deals with the impact of uniforms and dress standards in a variety of settings that bear some similarity to corrections. Most of the research was conducted outside Canada.
Abstract
The results indicate that uniforms can express and communicate a prevailing correctional philosophy and thereby influence the way in which those confronted by the uniform wearer respond to authority. The Canada Correctional Service has, on at least two occasions, experienced uniform-related policy shifts that reflected philosophical and organizational reorientations. In both cases, the position on uniforms was in itself only marginally effective in producing the desired outcome. While uniforms can reinforce group cohesion, they can also alienate nonuniformed staff members. A continuum of impacts could be hypothesized based on the nature of the uniform and its perceived associations. A change in uniform styles will probably impact on staff and inmates in proportion to the extent of the shift and the degree to which the uniform is intended to reflect organizational policies and objectives. 24 references