Concepts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Concepts - Essay Example only way inmates can deal with these problems is by resorting to the facilities provided them by the informal prisoner subculture as their only hope in order to have a semblance of ‘normal’ life. The inmates take on lifestyles and roles similar to those they had in the ‘free-world’ and form associations as they would have on the outside. New inmates must adhere to the customs if they wish to fit in and to be respected by their counterparts and ensure personal security for themselves. In such a criminal environment, social hierarchy is determined by the extent of criminal conduct. A hardened criminal who displays a complete disregard for the law through demeanor and actions, is considered ‘a stand up guy’. Fanatical allegiance to the code is looked upon with respect and fear. of indigenous politics. Courts have passed several judgments granting the prisoners rights such as the freedom to practice and preach religion, a practice which has been misused widely by groups and leaders for gaining prominence. There are several roles that the prisoners take on. Drug suppliers, strong arms, brains, pimps, jailhouse prostitutes, etc., are some of the roles in a prison society. A ‘fish’ or a new inmate is expected to refrain from interfering in dealings. A weak inmate is often abused sexually or physically by a strong inmate. Most inmates are active participants in the system and form a link in the chain of internal politics in one way or another. Some inmates might resort to keeping to themselves while taking care not to offend others by showing them down or challenging their authority. Not borrowing or lending, abstaining from gambling, not accepting favors, etc., is a safe way of serving a sentence. Privileges like visitation rights, telephone and mail has made it easy for inmates to smuggle contraband, and the trade in these, most of which are goods easily available outside but are considered luxuries within the walls of a jail, has given birth to a