Engagement in Structured and Prosocial Activities in Prisons and Inmates’ Emotional Well-Being

• In Event: Prisoners' Mental, Physical, and Emotional Well-being

Abstract

Qualitative research and criminological theory suggest that involvement in structured and prosocial activities is associated with positive behavioral and emotional outcomes for offenders in institutional corrections. However, the majority of studies that provide the empirical evidence for these conclusions focus on a narrow scope of programs and activities and do not provide statistical evidence of the strength and significance of the associations. Additionally, many of these investigations are dated. To address these gaps, this study uses quantitative data to examine the relationship between participation in a comprehensive range of daily activities and emotional well-being in contemporary South Carolina prisons.

Authors

• Mateja Vuk, University of West Georgia

• Brandon Applegate, University of South Carolina