Violence in Incarcerated Populations: a Review of the Literature

Purpose of Review: To provide an overview of the current research surrounding violence in prison populations. Recent Findings: It has been a long-held misconception that race plays a factor in the propensity to commit violence leading to the higher rates of incarceration. On review of recent data, exposure to violence and socioeconomic status play a big part in not only how a person’s path leads to incarceration, but also to the continuation of the cycle of violence. The lack of effective interventions in the prison and jail environments also contributes to the incidence of violence in this patient population. Furthermore, this lack of intervention leads to the development, or worsening in some cases, of medical and psychiatric problems in this group. Summary: Incarcerated populations are at high risk for physical and sexual assault from other inmates as well as from staff. The consequence of this environment exacerbates pre-existing physical and mental conditions. Further research must be done into evidence-based interventions that address these overwhelming disparities.