Toward a Sociology of inmate Networks

• In Event: 533 - Section on Crime, Law, and Deviance Invited Session. Social Networks and Crime

Abstract

In this presentation, we use network theory and methods to build a research agenda that returns the prison social system to the forefront of corrections research. After a brief overview of the network perspective, we demonstrate how a systems approach can test important hypotheses related to prison status hierarchies and social organization that are critical for improving prison-based rehabilitative efforts. We also outline a networks-based data collection strategy that is both feasible and capable of providing novel and rich information. Finally, we discuss the advanced statistical tools available for network analyses and how these may help answer important theoretical hypotheses for inmate structure and relationship dynamics.

Authors

• Derek Allen Kreager, Pennsylvania State University

• David R. Schaefer, Arizona State University

• Gary Zajac, Pennsylvania State University

• Sara Wakefield, State University of New Jersey-Rutgers

• Martin Bouchard, Simon Fraser University

• Dana L. Haynie, The Ohio State University

• Jacob T.N. Young, Arizona State University