The Socialization into Criminality: On Becoming a Prisoner and a Guard.

Abstract

A discussion of the way in which persons become institutionalized and institutionally socialized is presented. Special attention is given to the form these processes take in the institution of prison. The concept of 'situational control' is discussed and elaborated upon as a perspective from which to view the causes of human behavior. The potency of situational control and social 'roles' in institutional settings is emphasized. Included is a section designed to convey a personal, phenomenological perspective on prison conditions, followed by an analytical treatment of social control in prison. Parallels between prison degradation and dehumanization, and the processes by which persons become 'socialized into criminality' in society at large are suggested. The role of social science in investigating and disseminating information about these forms of social control is discussed. (Author)

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