Authors: Friestad, Christine; Hansen, Inger Lise Skog

Source: Journal of Scandinavian Studies in Criminology and Crime Prevention, Volume 6, Number 2, Number 2/December 2005 , pp. 183-196(14)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

Abstract:

In this paper, we investigate the differential contribution of accumulated welfare deficiencies, drug use, and self‐efficacy on inmates' current symptoms of mental health problems. Few studies so far have investigated inmates' mental health based on empirical data covering both social and psychological predictors. Our analyses are aimed at the following research questions: (a) what is the relationship between welfare deficiencies, drug use, and symptom reporting among prison inmates? (b) is this relationship influenced by inmates' perceived self‐efficacy? and (c) how might this information be used to inform the discussion of challenges in prisoner re‐entry? Findings are based on a national survey among prison inmates in Norway, focusing on living conditions generally, as well as mental distress, drug use, and self‐efficacy. The findings indicate serious accumulation of disadvantage, and more welfare deficiencies among drug users and those suffering from mental distress. When it comes to prediction of mental distress, accumulation of welfare deficiencies and self‐efficacy both turned out as significant contributors. The findings are discussed both in terms of practical implications, and in terms of how they illustrate some of the shortcomings inherent in a traditional welfare research perspective.

Keywords: Inmates; Living conditions; Mental health; Prison; Self‐efficacy; Social background; Welfare deficiencies

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14043850510035100

Affiliations: 1: Fafo Institute for Labour and Social Research, Oslo, Norway

Publication date: 2005-12-01

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Social & Public Welfare
• By this author: Friestad, Christine ;  Hansen, Inger Lise Skog

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers