Date of Conferral
2020
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Psychology
Advisor
Dr Hampe
Abstract
This phenomenological study explored the lived experiences and challenges of transgender inmates through a Department of Corrections (DOC) in the Midwestern United States. These individuals are at a higher risk for self-harm actions and assault by other inmates. There are a unique set of issues and needs that current policies and procedures fail to address for transgender inmates. Participants were invited to tell their experiences of incarceration which provided a description of their transgender identity and their lived experience through DOC. The 11 participants described their lived experiences in DOC along with their thoughts, feelings, and themes as they related to the phenomena being studied. This unique experience of transgender inmates addressed challenges they faced along their journey in prison as well as the challenges of corrections to provide effective security and care. This specific lived experiences provided information on areas that need readjusting or modification within DOC. Transgender inmates have a specific set of medical and mental health needs. Understanding transgender inmates experiences with the DOC may contribute to positive social by assisting to enhance a proper method for transgender incarceration as well as assist practitioners and policy makers with developing guidelines.
Recommended Citation
Radice, Allison, "An Exploration of the Lived Experience of Transgender Individuals in Prison" (2020). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 9432.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/9432
