NCJ Number
130179
Journal
Justice Quarterly Volume: 7 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1990) Pages: 711-737
Date Published
1990
Length
27 pages
Annotation
A typology that structures the more prominent models that have been advanced to explain the occurrence of prison riots is developed, and the 1986 takeover of the West Virginia State Penitentiary is analyzed drawing on several of the current models of prison riots.
Abstract
Current explanations for prison riots can be classified into a typology of six conceptual models: environmental conditions, spontaneity, conflict, collective behavior/social control, power vacuum, and rising expectations. Although these typologies constructs are broader than their underlying individual "explanations," they are still individually incapable of explaining prison riots. This fact suggests a need to develop more integrative models. Drawing upon these models, it appears that the West Virginia riot provides considerable evidence to support the salient features of the Collective Behavior/Social Control model. The major implication of these findings for correctional policy makers and administrators is: in light of current knowledge and the resulting inability to predict riots with any certainty, all that can be suggested is that effective management offers the best hope for prevention. 1 table, 2 notes, and 35 references. (Author abstract modified)