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Exploring Inmates’ Perceptions, Attitudes, and Behavior: Implications for Theories of Crime

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  • Daniel L. Chen
  • Lubomir Cingl
  • Arnaud Philippe
  • Michal Soltes

Abstract

We examine the perceptions and behavior of inmates, revealing insights that challenge existing theories of criminal behavior. Using comprehensive surveys, we contrast 816 Czech inmates’ perceptions of sanction risks, interpersonal and institutional trust, impulsivity, and beliefs about post-release reintegration with those of the general population. Our findings reveal that inmates perceive higher risks of sanctions but are not more accurate about these risks. They have lower trust in other inmates, lower trust in the justice system, and exhibit less impulsivity than non-inmates. We observed limited evolution of responses for individuals surveyed twice, one year apart. Impulsivity and a diminished perception of the risk of sanctions are positively associated with misbehavior among inmates in prison. These results partly support theories of procedural justice and homo oeconomicus but challenge the notion of criminal brotherhood.

Suggested Citation

  • Daniel L. Chen & Lubomir Cingl & Arnaud Philippe & Michal Soltes, 2024. "Exploring Inmates’ Perceptions, Attitudes, and Behavior: Implications for Theories of Crime," CERGE-EI Working Papers wp779, The Center for Economic Research and Graduate Education - Economics Institute, Prague.
    • Handle: RePEc:cer:papers:wp779
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