Problem
The problem the study aimed to address:
The study investigates facility-level factors influencing inmate violence, particularly focusing on the role of programming and administrative controls. It examines how these variables affect both inmate–inmate and inmate–staff assaults.
General impact on the system and/or public:
Violence in prisons compromises the safety of inmates, correctional staff, and the administration. This study contributes to improving correctional management and safety protocols, thus potentially reducing administrative costs and enhancing public safety.
Research Questions:
- How do facility-level factors such as programming availability and administrative controls influence rates of inmate–inmate and inmate–staff assaults?
- What is the role of programming in mitigating violence within correctional facilities?
Method and Analysis
Program Evaluated:
- Evaluates the impact of programming availability on prison violence.
- Addresses gaps in understanding the facility-level predictors of inmate violence and underexplored aspects of inmate–staff assaults.
Data and Sample Size:
- Data from 487 state correctional facilities across the U.S., derived from the 1995, 2000, and 2005 Census of State and Federal Adult Correctional Facilities.
- Panel data analysis with measures such as program availability, racial diversity, and formal controls.
Analysis Used:
- Negative binomial regression for count data to address overdispersion.
- Random-effects panel data models to evaluate the dynamic effects of facility-level factors.
Outcome
Key Findings:
- Programming impacts:
- Programs such as substance abuse treatment, sex offender counseling, and family/life skills training correlated with reduced inmate–inmate assaults.
Some programs (e.g., vocational training, employment programs) were linked to increased inmate–inmate assaults.
- Staff interactions:
- Availability of mental health, educational, and employment programs was associated with higher rates of inmate–staff assaults.
- A higher ratio of correctional officers to inmates unexpectedly correlated with increased assaults on staff.
- Control measures:
- Use of disciplinary housing and protective custody correlated with higher assault rates, challenging the effectiveness of traditional control-oriented strategies.
Implications or Recommendations:
- Policy Recommendations: Administrators should prioritize evidence-based and carefully implemented programming that aligns with institutional safety goals.
- Future Research: Additional studies should explore the interaction between program quality, inmate behavior, and staff safety.
- Management Practices: Proactive strategies focusing on root causes of violence (e.g., racial tension, overuse of segregation) can improve prison safety.
This study provides critical insights into the complex relationship between programming, administrative controls, and prison violence, offering valuable guidance for correctional policy and future research directions.