Citation

Dalbert C, Filke E. Crim. Justice Behav. 2007; 34(11): 1516-1527.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/0093854807306835

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study focuses on the relationship between the experience of justice, belief in a just world (BJW), and the feelings of adult male prisoners. The sample comprised 100 adult male prisoners from a German prison. Regression analysis provided evidence for the assimilation function of the BJW: High believers evaluated the legal proceedings, their interpersonal treatment by their corrections officers, and decisions on prison affairs as more just; they reported better well-being and were less likely to express anger as outburst behavior. Interpersonal justice was particularly important in explaining well-being. The results persisted when controlling for social desirability, criminal background, and personal background. The role of BJW and interpersonal justice as a resource for adaptive social behavior and subjective well-being is discussed.

Language: en