NCJ Number
133159
Date Published
1990
Length
154 pages
Annotation
Psychological principles are applied to a prison environment and the problems that occur within it.
Abstract
In the first five chapters, psychology is applied to understanding prisoners. The origins of criminal behavior are explored such as a prisoner's early environment and development, socio-economic status, current living circumstances, and crises and negative events. The psychology behind sex offenders; the physical and physiological effects of alcohol; and the development of violent behavior, effects of imprisonment, and effects of AIDS and HIV infection are also covered. In the second section, psychology is applied to implementation of more effective interaction with prisoners. Topics covered included communication skills, coping with disturbed prisoners, prevention of face-to-face violence, and hostage taking. Occupational causes of stress for prison staff are examined, and suggestions on prevention or management of it are given. For the prison personnel that may need to give evidence in court about offenses that occurred during the course of their work, the court process is described, and the skills required of such witnesses are listed.