The Inmate as the Nonperson

Abstract

Midwestern state inmates were interviewed to determine how they understand and interpret staff conflict. Qualitative analysis has shown that inmates describe being ignored or disregarded because of verbal and sometimes physical fights between staff members. While others show that those occupying a nonperson status are in a powerless position, inmates explain that this highlights the fact that staff members are not paying attention to them and this engenders inmate misconduct and contributes to a culture of disrespect.