NCJ Number
101998
Journal
International Journal of Biosocial Research Volume: 6 Issue: 2 Dated: (1984) Pages: 135-140
Date Published
1984
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews the unique problems of conducting research within the confines of prisons and reformatories, with particular attention to structural elements and interpretive issues.
Abstract
Most nutrition and behavior studies that focus on criminal or deviant behavior have experimented with incarcerated populations. Such populations appear to be especially amenable to such experimentation. Obviously there is apparently a far greater ability to manipulate variables within such institutionalized populations. Appearances, however, often betray realities. This review focuses on structural elements in total institutions that often confound results. Particular attention is paid to problems encountered in interpreting behavioral changes following alterations in nutritional patterns. Alterations in design are proposed to avoid specific experimental effects when conducting nutrition-oriented research in such settings. 7 references. (Author abstract)