Life Strategies in Convicts with Different Sentence Severity

Abstract

Life strategies depend on value orientations. This study featured the life strategies typical of men imprisoned for major crimes. The research relied on E. E. Sapogova’s Modes of Life Questionnaire, M. Rokeach’s Value Orientations, the procedure developed by R. Inglehart and modified by M. S. Yanitskiy, D. A. Leontiev’s Meaningful Life Orientation Test, etc. The empirical part of the research involved 52 inmates who were serving their sentences in a colony-settlement. Most respondents proved to be focused on the values of socialization. However, the research revealed differences in their life modes and value orientations. Those convicted for serious crimes demonstrated false heroism and focused on external success. They had a much lower sense of life purpose, while their choice of values depended on socially approved behavior, e.g., a well-paid job, family values, responsibility, diligence, etc. The data obtained can be used to develop re-socialization programs for ex-prisoners.