FOR 12(c): Custodial sentencing evaluation

Explain what research has shown about the negative psychological effects of custodial sentencing on (i) suicide (ii) psychosis. (2)

* Suicide rates 9x higher than general population (2016)

* 25% of women and 15% of men in prison report symptoms of psychosis.

Explain how the importation model would account for findings of an association between custodial sentencing and suicide / psychosis (3)

* Prisoners already have psychological problems before entering prison...

* ...so unclear whether problems are a result of being in prison...

* ...or part of a long- term pattern of behaviour

Explain how the findings of Zimbardo support the psychological effects of custodial sentencing (4)

* Prisoners quickly conformed to their roles...

* ...becoming helpless and apathetic.

* Some suffered psychological disturbance...

* ...despite having no previous problems.

Explain what research has shown about the impact of education / training on rehabilitation (2)

* Offenders who take part in college education programmes are 43% less likely to reoffend

* Violence is lower in prisons offering such schemes

Explain how prison might become a 'university for crime' instead of rehabilitating prisoners (3)

* Younger criminals learn the 'tricks of the trade'

* Build up criminal contacts from more experienced offenders

* Undermines the aim of rehabilitation.