Chronic Misconduct Predicts Violent Victimization in Prison

• In Event: Issues Related to Victimization in Correctional Settings

Abstract

Prior research suggests most institutional misconduct is committed by a small number of incarcerated people. The current study examines the most prolific rule violators (the top 10% and the top 1%). This is calculated for two types of misconduct: violence and risky lifestyles associated with institutional victimization (contraband, drug or alcohol use, gambling, being in an unauthorized area, escape, and illegal transactions). Results show those who fall in the top 10% and top 1% groups for violent misconduct have higher risk for violent victimization and experience a greater number of violent incidents. However, membership in the top risky lifestyles misconduct group does not predict victimization. Implications for theory and correctional policy are discussed and directions for future research are given.

Authors

• Matthew Logan, Texas State University

• Susan McNeeley, Minnesota Department of Corrections