NCJ Number
232249
Journal
Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 37 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2010 Pages: 1140-1159
Date Published
October 2010
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This study examined the association between self-reported victimization combined with perceptions of the prison environment and psychological well-being in sample of former inmates.
Abstract
The effect of violence on individual behavior has been well documented. However, the empirical literature surrounding the relationship between coercive prison environments and inmate well-being is limited. This is important not only for correctional administrators but also for reentry planning. Using a sample of 1,616 recently released male inmates, this study examines the psychological effect of victimization and of perceptions of threat and coercion arising from the prison environment. The study also examines whether social support affects cognitions and psychological symptoms and whether it moderates the effect of victimization and coercion. The findings reveal that coercion and social support are related to posttraumatic cognitions and trauma symptoms; however, social support does not provide a moderating effect. Tables, appendixes, and references (Published Abstract)