Inmate Perceptions of Safety and Violence in a Female Correctional Facility: A Longitudinal Study

• In Event: Female Incarceration Experiences and Impacts

Abstract

Although several studies have examined the effectiveness of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) in protecting female inmates, no longitudinal comparative studies within the same facility has ever been conducted. The purpose of this study is to not only examine differences in inmate perceptions of facility procedures in protecting women inmates from physical and sexual violence from two different time periods, but to also examine the relationship between these different measures. Data for the study were collected using the Women’s Correctional Safety Scales Survey (WCSS) that was administered to female inmates and detainees in a large metropolitan jail in both 2012 and 2018. In addition, further evidence that supports the validity and reliability of the WCSS measures is also presented. This paper will discuss the implications of findings correctional practice and future research.

Authors

• Macey Hall, Eastern Kentucky University

• Trevor Myers, Eastern Kentucky University

• Krista D. Smithers, Eastern Kentucky University

• Rossana A. Diaz, Eastern Kentucky University

• Kristen Embry, Eastern Kentucky University

• James Wells, Eastern Kentucky University