Stress, Crowding, and Blood Pressure in Prison

The purpose of "Stress, Crowding, and Blood Pressure in Prison" was to present the rationale, background, methods, principal results, analyses, interpretations, and conclusions of the authors' studies at Massachusetts correctional institutions. It employed a longitudinal method to study 568 inmates and drew on psychological, social, and health sciences assessments to identify the effects of housing mode, prison employment, leisure activities, disciplinary actions, and personal and sociodemographic characteristics on stress.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 25 October 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1987, the purpose of Stress, Crowding, and Blood Pressure in Prison was to present, in a single location, the rationale, background, methods, principal results, analyses, interpretations, and conclusions of the authors' studies at Massachusetts correctional institutions. Employing a longitudinal method for studying 568 inmates, the authors drew on psychological, social, and health sciences assessments to identify the effects of housing mode, prison employment, leisure activities, disciplinary actions, and personal and sociodemographic characteristics on what was particularly stressful for inmates. A parallel study of prison staff and a specific series of conclusions and recommendations conclude the book.

The authors conducted their research at Massachusetts correctional institutions, employing a longitudinal method to study a cohort of 568 inmates. To understand the factors that contributed to stress within the prison environment, they relied on a comprehensive range of psychological, social, and health sciences assessments. These assessments aimed to identify the impact of various factors, including housing mode, prison employment, leisure activities, disciplinary actions, and personal and sociodemographic characteristics, on the experiences of inmates.

The findings of the study revealed that certain aspects of prison life were particularly stressful for inmates. For instance, the authors identified housing mode as a significant stressor, with solitary confinement being particularly detrimental to inmates' mental and physical well-being. They also found that prison employment, while providing an income and a sense of purpose, could also contribute to stress due to the demanding nature of the work and the associated risks. Leisure activities, such as access to recreational facilities and programs, were found to play a crucial role in reducing stress and promoting mental well-being among inmates.

Furthermore, the study examined the effects of disciplinary actions and personal and sociodemographic characteristics on stress levels among inmates. The authors found that disciplinary actions, such as segregation and isolation, could exacerbate stress and contribute to negative mental health outcomes. Similarly, factors such as age, race, gender, and prior criminal history were found to influence inmates' experiences of stress and their ability to cope with the prison environment.

To conclude, Stress, Crowding, and Blood Pressure in Prison provides valuable insights into the factors that contribute to stress in prison environments. By employing a longitudinal method and a comprehensive range of assessments, the authors have shed light on the experiences of inmates and the factors that can mitigate or exacerbate their stress levels. The book's findings have important implications for policymakers, correctional officials, and healthcare professionals working in the field of criminal justice. It highlights the need for policies and practices that prioritize the well-being of inmates and address the root factors that contribute to stress and negative mental health outcomes.

Weight: 630g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032557212