Violence In Prison Essay

The prison system is commonly believed to re-educate criminals, but to some extends, prisons provide an environment where prisoners can easily interact with each other, which may be a negative influence. For those who have to spend time behind bars, talking to other inmates is unavoidable and there is no doubt that criminal material and techniques will be mentioned during the conversation. In addition, prison gangs have become an acute problem throughout the correctional system, which “raised toughness and mercilessness to the top of the prisoners’ value systems” (Wacquant, 2011). First-time offenders may know a very few people in prison, which can lead them to be the target of prison violence. By joining a gang, prisoners are offered protection and safety. Gangs become trouble when it …show more content…
As mentioned above, the correctional system can sometimes be considered as a determinant of producing crime after incarceration because of its hostile environment. Hence, a more relaxing prison condition is necessary. “A change that makes life behind bars less stressful and more secure for prisoners could mitigate conditions that breed violence and gang activity” (Neminski, nd). Having a relaxing and safe condition for criminals may reduce a great deal of prison violence, the need from prison gangs may, therefore, be lessened considerably. In addition, those who are convicted of using abandoned substance and minor form of theft may have to carry lighter penalties, or do community service instead of going to jail. “Prisons tended to increase recidivism seven percent when compared to non-custodial community sentencing instead of a prison term” (Cullen, 2011). Offenders might be required to clean the public areas, plant trees, take care of injured animals at the Animal Rescue Center, etc. These non-paid jobs will make offenders useful in their community, thus lowering the likelihood of repeat