Examining Prison Climate and Mental Health Through the Carceral Lens of Convicts

Description

Page: 611-618

Inderpreet Sandhu and Rosy Malhotra (Department of Psychology, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab)

Conditions of incarceration have long been central to political and legal debates since prisons emerged as a correctional option. Research indicates that a positive prison climate can improve subjective safety, psychological well-being, quality of life, and reduce recidivism. However, limited literature exists in the Indian context about prevailing prison conditions as perceived by convicts and their link to mental health. To address this gap, the present study examined the association between perceptions of prison climate and mental health among 200 adult male and female convicts lodged in Tihar Prisons, New Delhi. Data collection was done using the Hindi versions of the Prison Climate Questionnaire and Mental Health Continuum-Short Form, translated through a backward-translation method. The data were analysed using Pearson’s Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient. The findings showed a significant link between positive perceptions towards prison relationships, basic amenities, meaningful activities, and autonomy with better mental health. The study underscores the importance of addressing inmates’ emotional, social, and psychological well-being, thereby contributing to a more effective correctional system and upholding human rights in prisons.