Violence in prisons is a common occurrence. Studies have shown that twenty to thirty percent of prisoners are during a one month time frame and thirty three percent are threatened with violence. A common explanation for violence in prison is the environment in which a large amount of people are confined in one place and their movement is limited. These restrictions of prisoners can cause them to not be unable to release their frustrations and which makes it hard to avoid situations of conflict that arise. The violent behavior between prisoners and staff are based on physical dominance and power. Violence between the staff and inmates can be due to abuse, mental illnesses, and even boredom. Some strategies for responding to violent behavior include communication which is very important when responding to violent behavior. Psychology is helpful when dealing with violent prisoners it gives the staff insight on the reasons behind the violence. By understanding the decision making process of inmates it can help the staff to develop means of resolving conflicts and solving problems.
Observation is a strategy for staff when responding to violent behavior in prison. The staff should always pay careful attention to what the inmates are doing. Looking and knowing what to look for you can see violent behavior developing or about to happen. All of these strategies are preferred by the staff of prisons but, sometimes the response to violent behavior ends with physical force. They staff has to use physical force to restrain inmates in situations. They are trained and attend state run classes to educate them and when physical force has to be used they are familiar with the laws of force and try to minimize the harm done to inmates in the process. Violent behavior can cause the inmate to serve a longer sentence than they have been sentenced to by the courts. There are penalties and consequences for all behavior in prisons in life in society.