Reform and Research: Re-connecting Prison and Society in the 21st Century

Abstract

In this contribution I briefly outline some of the historical and current trends in prison research and question how a prison researcher can work towards influencing policy and practice. I discuss the current role of 'what works' research and the way it is sometimes utilized in a time of penal populism and rising prison populations. I argue in favour of a broader approach which recognizes the wider societal effects of imprisonment and I provide a concrete example of how one can attempt to plan research and project work in order to facilitate progression from research and knowledge production to action and implementation. Finally I discuss some of the scientific and ethical implications which can arise when working with reform and implementation projects.

Honour and respect in Danish prisons: Contesting ‘cognitive distortions’ in cognitive-behavioural programmes

“…In the sphere of penology, this translates to an emphasis on rehabilitation, normalisation, low incarceration rates and humane prison regimes – a clear example of what Pratt (2008) terms ‘Scandinavian exceptionalism’. However, Denmark was not immune to the so-called punitive turn that emerged in the 1990s which resulted in longer sentences for violent crimes and ‘tough on crime’ rhetoric (Balvig, 2005; Smith, 2015). This shift has not rejected, but instead merged with the older, rehabilitative ideals, fusing punitiveness and penal-welfarism.…”

Perspectives on recidivists: the views of detainees, the general public and people working with offenders

“…Such activities could be chosen to overcome prejudices and/or stereotypes and to identify common strategies between the place of detention and the community outside with the view of working towards social reintegration (Gelsthorpe and Rex 2004;Iudici, Alborghetti and Ferri 2017;Iudici and Maiocchi 2014;Scott and Gosling 2016;Seiter and Kadela 2003). In keeping with this, we stress the importance of legislation, particularly the use of alternative measures, or the creation of interventions which could build bridges between work in prison and release, or the creation of halfway structures so that the detainee can deal successfully with release from prison and possible reoffending (Clear 2009;Dembo et al 2008;Faccio and Costa 2013;Hancock and Raeside 2009;Smith 2015;Wodahl and Garland 2009). In line with this, psychology courses for detainees aimed at developing skills to manage the prejudice which society still directs at those who have committed crimes might be advisable.…”

“…The interviewer is left free to decide the order in which these topics are dealt with and the ways in which the questions are formulated (Charmaz 2004). These methods allow interviewer and interviewee substantial leeway, whilst guaranteeing that all selected topics are discussed and that all necessary information is gathered (Corbetta 2003;Fylan 2005;Smith 1995).…”

Public-Private Partnership In The Penitentiary Sphere: Economic Aspects Of Law Enforcement Activity

“…That allow to reduce production costs due to benefits on contributions to social funds (pension, insurance, etc. ), which accordingly increases the competitiveness of production in correctional facilities (Smith, 2015). However, there are certain risks.…”