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Futurelessness and Commitment to Institutional Rules Among People in Jail
Frances P Abderhalden1, Beatriz Amalfi Marques2, Thomas Baker3
1California State University, Los Angeles, USA.
Summary
Futurelessness, or a lack of future outlook, is linked to less adherence to jail rules. This study confirms futurelessness impacts rule commitment across correctional settings.
Area of Science:
- Criminology
- Sociology
- Psychology
Background:
- Prior research indicates a connection between futurelessness and institutional rule commitment in correctional settings.
- Understanding factors influencing adherence to rules within correctional facilities is crucial for effective management and rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between futurelessness and commitment to institutional rules among incarcerated individuals.
- To determine if an index measure of futurelessness is a more robust predictor than single-item measures.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional data from 413 individuals incarcerated in U.S. jails (2018-2019).
- Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression analysis was employed.
- Controlled for importation and deprivation factors associated with institutional misconduct.
Main Results:
- A significant negative association was found between futurelessness and commitment to institutional rules.
- An index measure of futurelessness demonstrated stronger predictive power compared to single-item measures.
- The findings were consistent across different correctional environments.
Conclusions:
- Futurelessness is a significant factor associated with weaker commitment to institutional rules among jail populations.
- The use of an index measure for futurelessness offers a more reliable approach for future research.
- These findings underscore the importance of addressing future outlook in correctional interventions.
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