Disciplinary Offenses of Inmates Serving Long-term Sentences
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47152/ziksi2025121Keywords:
disciplinary offenses, long prison sentences, characteristics of convictsAbstract
Introduction: Prisons represent highly structured institutions in terms of maintaining order and security. The primary goal of serving a prison sentence is to help convicted individuals reintegrate into society after their release and to prevent future criminal behavior. Since a certain number of inmates do not adhere to behavioral rules and violate discipline, disciplinary sanctions are employed alongside various activities to maintain order, security, and treatment efforts. Aim: The aim of the research is to examine the relationship between the sociodemographic, criminological, and penological characteristics of inmates serving long-term sentences and the commission of disciplinary offenses. Methods: The sample included 131 convicted individuals from the Correctional Facility in Belgrade. The length of the imposed sentences ranged from five to 40 years (M = 24.18; SD = 10.40), with one inmate serving a life sentence. The ages of the inmates ranged from 23 to 71 years (M = 42.70, SD = 9.30). In the sample, 64.9% of participants had prior convictions, with the number of prior convictions ranging from 0 to 11 (M = 2.18, SD = 2.61). Data were collected through the analysis of official documentation. Results: The findings indicate that there are differences between inmates who commit disciplinary offenses and those who do not, concerning age, education level, type of committed crime, length of sentence, assessed risk of recidivism, and participation in treatment programs. Conclusion: The results obtained may be significant in designing penal treatment that aligns with the individual characteristics of inmates, with the aim of reducing inappropriate behavior during the sentence. Additionally, the findings underscore the importance of developing and maintaining inmates' motivation to participate in treatment activities while they are serving their sentences.
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