THE IMPACT OF MANDATORY RELOCATION ON FEMALE MAXIMUM SECURITY INMATES

Astute observations, as well as psychological research have suggested that environmental changes are often stressful events, particularly if out of one's control. This study empirically investigated the respons es of female maximum security inmates to a mandatory and permanent rel ocation from one facility to another (a distance of approximately 80 m iles). The findings indicate that inmates who experienced anxiety prio r to the move had more difficulty adjusting to the new facility than t hose who did not have anxiety prior to the move. More specifically, an xiety and anger prior to the move predicted depression after the move. Anxiety and focusing on the perceived problem (i.e., the move) predic ted anger after arrival at the new facility.