Participation in Prison Activities: An Analysis of the Determinants of Participation

Abstract

The positive associations of participation in prison activities (e.g. socio-cultural activities, educational courses, sports activities, vocational training, etc.), including reduction of recidivism, improvement of wellbeing and contributions to self-worth, are increasingly recognized. However, little is known about the characteristics by which participants differ from non-participants. In response to this research gap, this study aims to examine the determinants of inmate participation in prison activities. The determinants are categorized as outlined by the importation (individual characteristics) and deprivation (prison life characteristics) frameworks. Survey data derived from a research project in a remand prison in Belgium (N = 486) provided the empirical evidence for the multiple linear regression analyses. The findings indicate that individual deprivation variables are more likely to predict participation. However, our findings also highlight that the combined effects of importation and deprivation characteristics are more powerful in explaining activity participation. The article concludes by discussing some paths for future prison research and implications for theory and practice. It provides impetus to organize and increase participation in prison activities, taking into account the diverse characteristics, needs and competences of the prison population.