The Influence of the Physical Environment of Prison on Treatment: An Exploratory Study

• In Event: Women in Prison: Distresses, Complexities, and Strains

Abstract

Prisons in America are commonly designed to maximize the security of these facilities and protection of inmates and correctional staff. There is a growing concern these protective measures often hinder treatment-based programs within prisons. The current qualitative study explores the impact of the physical environment of the prison on inmates’ motivation for treatment and therapeutic engagement. Inmates participating in a therapeutic community for substance abuse were asked questions concerning their attitudes and perceptions towards the influence of the physical environment and treatment. This study yields interesting findings with respect to the belief that environment matters.

Authors

• Sami Abdel-Salam, West Chester University

• Laura W. Feeley, West Chester University

• Michael E Antonio, West Chester University