The role of sport and exercise in prisons; a sociological analysis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The role of sport and exercise in prisons; a sociological analysis
IRAS ID
195701
Contact name
Rebecca O'Hanlon
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Chester
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 1 days
Research summary
The role of sport and exercise in prisons; A sociological analysis
Within the current body of literature, research focusing upon sport and exercise within prisons is widely neglected. The articles that do focus upon this subject mainly draw upon the physical, social and mental benefits of sport and exercise within prisons, or the policy surrounding sport provisions within prisons and how this has been implemented. Looking at this domain from a sociological perspective and applying sociological theory to explain the role that sport and exercise plays within prison, thus far has not been considered. Therefore this study aims to provide data that will fill this gap within the literature. Additionally much of the current literature focuses on either the views of the prisoners or the views of the staff separately, few studies take both into account. Thus this study will draw upon views from both the prisoners and staff and look to draw comparisons and differences between them.
This study will be completed using semi-structure interviews as the research method. Individuals will be recruited via a gatekeeper and after consent is gained from the participant they will then complete an interview that will last approximately 30 minutes. The interviews will be recorded, transcribed and then analysed using thematic analysis. The interviews will be conducted with the aim of gathering data to answer the study's research question. The research question is; 'According to both prisoners and prison officers, what is the role of sport and exercise within a prison setting?' Participants will be recruited and the interviews will be completed at HMP Bure in Norfolk.REC name
North West - Greater Manchester West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/NW/0229
Date of REC Opinion
7 Apr 2016
REC opinion
Unfavourable Opinion