Prisoner objective and subjective safety in Dutch correctional institutions: Findings from the Life in Custody Study 2024

• In Event: PWG - Violence, self-harm, and safety in prison settings

Abstract

There are several indications that prisoner safety is a matter of concern for Dutch prison administrations, given the influx of “high-risk prisoners”, understaffing, and a general trends towards increased callosity. In this contribution, we describe the findings regarding prisoner safety, both from an objective (victimization) and subjective (experienced fear/safety) perspective. In doing so, we apply a broader definition and methodology for both objective and subjective safety. We also investigate the relationship between objective and subjective safety. The data for this project come from a large nationwide prison climate study, the Life in Custody Study 2024.

Authors

• Sophie Martens, Leiden University

• Hanneke Palmen, Leiden University

• Paul Nieuwbeerta, Leiden University