The Relevance and Irrelevance of Psychological Research: The Example of Prison Crowding

The perceived irrelevance of psychological studies on prison overcrowding is due in part to emphasis on individuals rather than larger units. The authors explore how the different perspectives of researchers & practitioners affect the conduct of research & its impact on policy. Data is presented that raises questions about the impact of prison crowding on illness, suicide & death rates. The authors conclude with suggestions for making psychological research on prison crowding more policy relevant.