By Nancy Jean Smyth
FROM THE INTRODUCTION: “The purpose of this study is to examine the environmentcentered preferences of prison inmates who are at high risk of maladaptation, and to explore the relationship between these preferences and the inmates' adaptation to prison. The 33 male inmates in this study have all been identified at some juncture as having experienced some difficulty adapting to prison. In this case, all the inmates engaged in at least one parasuicide? during their incarceration. These inmates can be considered to be at high risk for future maladaptation in prison. Without assistance, some of these high risk inmates may adapt reasonably well to prison. However, it is likely that a portion of this group will experience some difficulties in adapting to prison. Through examining the adaptation of these high risk inmates as well as their concerns and preferences related to the environment, it was hoped that information would be discovered that would aid in the identification and treatment of those inmates at risk for continued maladaptation…Extreme, prolonged stress can create difficulties for many people; the prison environment is no exception to this…”
Albany. NY. Nelson A. Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy School of Social Welfare. 1990. 124p.
