NCJ Number
192480
Journal
Prison Journal Volume: 81 Issue: 4 Dated: December 2001 Pages: 491-501
Date Published
December 2001
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This study examined the amount and frequency of masturbation in a Southern female prison.
Abstract
The topic of male and female masturbation both in free society and in prison has received very little academic attention. In fact, no study has been conducted on female masturbatory practices in correctional facilities. This study examined the amount and frequency of masturbation in a Southern female prison. In addition, the study uncovered predictor variables associated with female masturbation in prison. The most salient variable associated with female inmate masturbation was homosexual behavior (partnering with another female inmate) while incarcerated. Factors such as age and religious affiliation (which had consistently been found to have a significant relationship with masturbation in free society studies) did not have an effect on female masturbation in prison. The strongest correlation was between amount of time served and personal offense (r = .46). The study did not find any multicollinearity between the independent variables. Masturbation in prison is almost always a rule infraction. However, the study noted, it provided inmates an alternative outlet to release pent-up frustrations and stresses, may reduce the amount of consensual and coerced homosexual behavior behind bars, and prevents the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Tables, references