Condom provision in prison settings: misconceptions, stereotypes and recommendations to promote acceptance

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to highlight prevalent misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding condom provision programs in prison settings and proposes solutions to enhance the availability, accessibility and quality of condom provision programs in prison settings. Design/methodology/approach Unprotected sex is a prevalent high-risk behavior and a major avenue for infection transmission in prison settings, worldwide. Despite this fact, many prison health policymakers exhibit hesitation in distributing condoms among people residing in prisons. Findings Common misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding condom provision programs in prison settings are presented and discussed in the text. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first of its kind presenting the prevalent misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding condom provision programs in prison settings and recommending solutions to address this issue.