The Adaptation of the Older Prisoner in Israel.

Health Promotion Programs

May 2021

Full Citation

Silfen, P. (1977). The Adaptation of the Older Prisoner in Israel. International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, 21(1), 57–65. https://doi.org/10.1177/0306624X7702100108

Abstract

Conducted 2 interviews with each of 15 prisoners aged 50 and over in the Israeli prison system. A structured interview was used to assess the Ss' views on the process of aging, future plans, self-concept, relationships with others, and the extent of the Ss' dependence on or independence of inmates and wardens. An anamnestic interview included questions on general health, sexual activity, weight, height, sleeping and eating habits. Data were content analyzed, and the Ss were classified into 2 groups according to their sources of equilibrium: (a) internal sources (i.e., those who have the ability to function through a minimal reduction in some activities, which is balanced by compensation in other activities); and (b) external sources (i.e., those who have partially lost the ability to function independently and who achieve balance through outside intervention, generally from the prison framework). Findings indicate that in cases where an individual's internal resources were not strong enough to enable him to function within the prison, efforts were made to meet him halfway. From these results the authors conclude that it is not necessary to have special units for aged prisoners. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)