Communication Policy Changes from 1971 to 1991 in State Correctional Facilities for Adult Males in the United States

Abstract

The objective of this research is to determine whether and how correctional institutions's policies on correspondence, visitation, and telephoning have changed between 1971 and 1991. Data were gathered in 1971, 1981, and 1991 from state correctional institutions for adult males in maximum and medium security facilities. The findings indicate to the authors that correctional institutions are making serious commitments to reduce the social isolation of inmates through more liberal communication policies. Implications for further research are suggested to determine the effects of inmates' increased contacts with the outside society through more liberal policies regarding correspondence, visitation, and telephoning.