NCJ Number
137517
Journal
Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 19 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1992) Pages: 160- 173
Date Published
1992
Length
14 pages
Annotation
A survey of 300, adult male inmates of the maximum-security Tennessee State Prison provided information on the types, prevalence, and social correlates of personal precautions related to preventing victimization by violence.
Abstract
The inmates each received $3 for completing the 13-page questionnaire. In addition, 25 personal interviews lasting 45-60 minutes were conducted with inmates. The participants were generally in their mid-30's, unmarried, and from urban areas. Approximately half were white and half were black. A factor analysis of responses revealed two distinct dimensions of precautionary behavior. The more fearful, older, and socially isolated inmates mainly used avoidance behaviors to reduce the threat of victimization. In contrast, younger inmates who used the inmate culture as a source of status and privilege tended to use more aggressive or proactive techniques to deter attacks. Tables, appended description of survey instrument, and 18 references (Author abstract modified)