A rescue dog program in two maximum-security prisons: A qualitative study. Issue 4 (19th May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Smith, Hayden P.
• Is Part Of: Journal of offender rehabilitation. Volume 58:Issue 4(2019)
• Page Start: 305
• Page End: 326
• Publication Date: 2019-05-19
• Subjects: dog programs -- prison -- character based units -- programs -- prison administration; Criminals -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Corrections -- Periodicals; Corrections -- United States -- Periodicals; 365.6610973
• DOI: 10.1080/10509674.2019.1596189
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1050-9674

Abstract

Abstract: Dog programs occurring in prison are popular though they lack empirical testing. This study is the first to assess rescue dog programs in two maximum- security prisons, with a sample of male inmates ( n = 285). Survey questions regarding the program were assessed qualitatively with the identification of the following key themes: the symbolism of the rescue dog, universal support and spillover effects, reinforcement of positive emotions, hope, coping, and transformation, and a linkage to the outside world. The dogs clearly represented a conduit to positive outcomes for participants and the broader prison institution, however this relationship requires further testing.