A Systematic Review of the Prison Violence and Victimization Literature

• In Event: Exploring Factors Related to In-Prison Misconduct and Victimization

Abstract

There is substantial literature on prison violence, including physical and sexual assaults in carceral spaces. Most of this work focuses on adult males, with less attention paid to women or juveniles and non-sexual victimizations. We conducted a systematic review of the literature to better understand prison violence across these demographics and types of victimization to assess the evidence base. We focused our search on peer-reviewed studies and grey literature (government agency reports, dissertations) from 1975 to 2021. This presentation provides preliminary findings based on this review. We further highlight areas where additional research is needed to better understand various types of prison violence.

Authors

• Eileen M. Ahlin, Pennsylvania State University, Harrisburg

• H. Daniel Butler, Iowa State University

• Joshua T. Ballard, Pennsylvania State University, Harrisburg