Psychology in Prisons

By David J.Cooke, Pamela J.Baldwin and Jacqueline Howison

Prisons have a very distinctive environment; one in which particular psychological problems occur with exaggerated frequency and intensity. If prison staff are to work effectively they must be aware of the influence of this unique environment upon the behaviour of those who inhabit it. Psychology in Prisons argues that, by applying psychological principles, behaviour within prisons can be better understood, and violence, distress and stress can be limited. The authors show how psychology can be used to increase our understanding of prisoners, how they became involved in crime, and how they adapt to prison life. They explain how psychology can be used and applied to make for more effective day-to-day dealing with prisoners. The authors focus on key areas of tension and particular problem groups, including sex offenders, violent offenders and the issue of AIDS. But the book also considers how working in prison affects its staff and explores how they can use psychological principles both to reduce the level of stress they undergo in their work and to secure the prisoners’ mental well-being. Psychology in Prisons will be of interest to those with a broad interest in applied psychology or to anyone who is involved with work in prisons.

London; New York: Routledge, 1990. 160p.