The paternal role of prisoners accused or convicted of sexual offenses: examining the role of prison officers

• In Event: PWG - Staff perspectives on detained persons

Abstract

This paper focuses on prison officers' attitudes towards the parental role model of prisoners accused or convicted of sexual offenses, as these offences have a heightened apathy for both society and the prison microcosm. Correctional officers are responsible for maintaining a delicate balance within correctional facilities as they come into daily contact with prisoners. Their role and their contribution to the social reintegration of prisoners is crucial as through frequent communication they influence positively or negatively the prisoners' behavior and perception of society. In particular, this paper examines, qualitative and quantitative, the attitudes of prison officers towards both prisoners and relatives visiting prisoners in Special Correctional Facilities for Offences against Sexual Liberty in Greece. I argue that the maintenance of family ties through regular visits to prisons prove to be decisive in the proper functioning of the penitentiary. This reinforcement by correctional officers of the paternal role of prisoners results in the observance of rules and the reduction of disciplinary offences and contributes to a smooth social reintegration.

Author

• Alexandros Arfaras, PhD, Ministry of Citizen Protection, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens