Does Security Create Safety? How to Meet Needs in a Women's Prison

• In Event: Incarceration Experiences of Women

Abstract

The current paper discusses what safety concerns and needs women correctional clients have as they navigate through prison. This mixed-methods study explored correctional staff and women correctional clients' perceptions of violence, threats, harms, dangers, and needs inside of a substance abuse program. Research questions for exploration include: 1) What are the most prominent needs that women have while incarcerated that affect overall safety? 2) How do women meet their needs while incarcerated? and 3) In what ways do staff believe the correctional environment be improved to increase the safety of women clients and staff? Results discuss findings from interviews, questionnaires, and short-answer responses to improve overall safety moving forward in carceral environments.

Authors

• Jaclyn Keen, Bowling Green State University

• Emily J. Salisbury, Utah Criminal Justice Center, University of Utah