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Abstract
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Purpose - This paper aims to present the author's reflections on prison research studies undertaken over the last ten years.
Design/methodology/approach - Some reflections come from personal diaries while others are lasting memories, which made a significant impact on the author as a young researcher.
Findings - The reflections highlight several important aspects of researching prisons: that people in prison may be quite selective about information they disclose if interviewed; that prisons, rather than prisoners, can act as significant barriers for researchers - operationally as well as institutionally; that this why the researcher should try to go beyond "the interview" at all opportunities and look to engage as much as possible with interviewees - even if it means walking around the wing, playing pool with them or seeing their cells.
Originality/value - The short paper will be useful for any researchers entering custody with the task of undertaking quick-fire research studies. |