Contraband: The Basis for Legitimate Power in a Prison Social System

Abstract

Much of the past literature on inmate socialization and social control in prison organizations has focused on the reciprocal relationships between key inmate leaders and members of the custodial staff. In addition, the literature is replete with examples of how prisoners adapt to their incarceration, in part, through the sub-rosa market system. However, what has not been systematically examined is the relationship between contraband activity and stability in the prison environment. This article explores the role of the contraband market in developing control and legitimate power in a prison social system, with suggested implications on how proper and improper manipulations of the illegal market perpetuate stability or instability in the prison setting. Finally, how other strategies may be employed by correctional administrators to control their environments are discussed. © 1985, SAGE PUBLICATIONS. All rights reserved.