Working with transgendered sex offenders: prison staff experiences

Marlow, K., Winder, B. and Elliott, H. (2015) Working with transgendered sex offenders: prison staff experiences. Journal of Forensic Practice, 17 (3). pp. 241-254. ISSN 2050-8794

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Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to gain insight into the experiences of staff working with transgendered sex offenders in a prison setting. The study utilised a qualitative approach, with semi-structured interviews used to explore the experiences of staff working with transgendered sexual offenders (n=6). Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Three themes were identified in the data. The first relates to how staff become educated on transgender issues and the content of this information. The second describes situations in which boundaries are overstepped by both transgender offenders and others in the prison. The third relates to the ways in which staff manage change, such as tailoring treatment to specific needs and being mindful of what adaptations may be required. Research limitations/implications – The main drawback of this research was the limited sample; female prison staff. Future research should expand this sample to encompass male staff and staff working in alternate category prisons. The research illustrates the utility of staff collaboration with transgendered sex offenders on transgender issues but also suggests some additional guidance is required when it comes to determining the boundaries. Staff may also benefit from more education on the possible ways in which a transgendered identity can impact on criminogenic needs. The present research offers insight into the current state of care and management of transgendered offenders in custody and the nature of interactions between staff and this minority group. At present, there is limited research in this area.

Item Type: Article
Additional Information: © Emerald Group Publishing Limited 2015. Some figures and tables present in the final published version of this article are not included in the version held in this repository.
Divisions: School of Social Science
Depositing User: Helen Swaby
Date Deposited: 20 Apr 2018 15:25
Last Modified: 23 Jul 2019 14:20
URI: https://bgro.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/290

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