Drawing on a range of research and media sources to provide an international perspective on the topic of prison violence, this book focuses on the impact of such violence on the individual both while he or she is incarcerated and upon his or her release from prison, as well as on society as a whole.

With a special emphasis on comparisons of violence among incarcerated populations in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, Prison Violence: Causes, Consequences and Solutions explores the various systems that exist to combat the problem, whilst also considering public perceptions of offenders and punishment, as influenced by media and coverage of high-profile cases.

Providing a comprehensive analysis of prison violence on national and international levels, this book examines the extent of the problem, theoretical understandings of the issue and concrete solutions designed to prevent and handle such violence. As such, it will be of interest to policy makers as well as scholars of sociology, criminology and penology.

Contents: An introduction to prisons, punishment and prison violence; Prison, by the numbers; Prisons and prison violence in other countries; Prison violence: explanations and theoretical underpinnings; The effects of prison violence; Challenges to understanding the problem; What is being done?; The long road ahead: the future of prison violence; References; Index.

About the Author: Kristine Levan is Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at Plymouth State University, USA.

Reviews: ‘Getting “smart on crime” requires attention to prison violence. Levan makes an important contribution through her comprehensive review of the harm (to individuals, families and communities) and numerous research-based solutions.’
Paul Leighton, Eastern Michigan University, USA

‘A compelling and comprehensive examination of a commonly overlooked subject. Particularly useful for newcomers to this area, the text is highly readable. While focusing on the United States, cross-national data is also presented, giving a comparative perspective. It also offers an astute discussion of ways to prevent and respond to prison violence.’
Tiffany Bergin, Cambridge University, UK

‘In her compelling text, Dr Levan offers a comprehensive treatment of the age-old problem of prison violence, an issue that has remained in the shadows for far too long. Prison Violence: Causes, Consequences and Solutions provides a concise, yet detailed analysis of the origins and implications of a prison culture that endorses violence as a means of currency and problem resolution. Levan brings a fresh and much-needed approach to the complex issue, incorporating cross-cultural comparisons and discussing the ways in which violence is dealt with inside the prison walls. A must read for students of penology and violence, as well as the public as a whole.’
Danielle Lavin-Loucks, Valparaiso University, USA

Extracts from this title are available to view:

Full contents list

Introduction

Index