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DeValiant, Georgina; McGrath, Laura and Kougiali, Zetta
(2020).
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14780887.2018.1442701
Abstract
Background: Prison is a complex, hierarchical environment which has been shown to both prompt existential reflection and act as a barrier to authentic emotional expression. The risks associated with emotional expression within prison are further suggested to inhibit forms of self-reflection crucial to successful desistance. This article explores the use of poetry as a practice and a research method within such an environment.
Method: Using narrative thematic analysis, poems published in Inside Times magazine were examined, selected because of a focus on inmate subjectivity.
Findings: Findings focus on the emotional, reflective, and transportational qualities of poetry. We explore the capacity of poetry to both mediate reflexive, emotional experiences, and mitigate counter-therapeutic aspects of secure environments.
Implications: We suggest shifting professional’s focus from changing inmate behaviours to the creation of “safe spaces”or atmospheres within prison which will allow inmates the opportunity for emotional authenticity and the exploration of non-criminal selves.
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- Item ORO ID
- 62760
- Item Type
- Journal Item
- ISSN
- 1478-0887
- Keywords
- Desistance; duality; poetic inquiry; prison; self
- Academic Unit or School
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Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) > Psychology and Counselling > Psychology
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) > Psychology and Counselling
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) - Copyright Holders
- © 2018 Taylor & Francis.
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