The Dynamics of Mental States of People Under Investigation

Abstract

The relevance of the results of this empirical research is based on a number of factors. Firstly, the knowledge of the causes and dynamics of different psychological states makes it possible to single out psychological patterns emerging in similar circumstances, accurately predict the behavior of the person under investigation, identify atypical situational or accidental conditions, and avoid mistakes in their description. Secondly, the study of mental states of a person deprived of liberty is valuable for the organization of the whole correctional process and the development of recommendations on preventing the destructive behavior of persons under investigation when it is caused by their mental state. The study touches upon little-studied issues of changes in the mental states of persons put in the temporary detention facilities. The analysis of the obtained data showed that longer periods spent in detention facilities lead to such negative changes in mental states of people under investigation as an increase of unmotivated anxiety, psycho-emotional tension, emotional lability, irritation, sadness, boredom, low spirits, poor well-being and activity, inmates develop sensory deprivation, frustration, hypoxia, and a deeper depression. At the same time, there is an increase in sociability, activity, and extraversion. Limitation of the freedom of actions and motor activity is compensated by a considerable increase in verbal activity, there is a greater desire for a trustful and open interaction with other people, a growth in self-criticism. To satisfy the need for communication and verbal activity, it is necessary to give people under investigation a chance to meet representatives of different religious denominations and the detention facility’s psychologist. After longer periods of detention persons under investigation begin to express characteristics typical of criminal behavior: boldness, inappropriate familiarity, tendency to take risks, resourcefulness, impatience, maximalism, love of freedom, courage and decisiveness. Time spent in a detention facility is most effective for optimizing the mental state of persons under investigation, developing constructive scenarios of serving a sentence and future successful re-socialization. When persons under investigation are transferred to penal colonies, their mental state is predicted to deteriorate.