Deterioration and the long term prisoner: a descriptive analysis of Myra Hindley

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore supposed inevitable personal decline for long-term prisoners, particularly those serving a sentence of life without parole. Design/methodology/approach – Using the prison records of a life without parole sentenced prisoner. Findings – Findings suggest that prisoner deterioration is not inevitable in a whole life prison sentence. Research limitations/implications – Findings are based on one account, of a female prisoner. Practical implications – Distinct services and support are required for those with a natural life prison sentence. Originality/value – To date, there is limited research of prisoners serving life without parole, particularly the mental health implications of denying a prisoner future parole.