PERCEPTION OF THE SITUATION OF WOMEN WITH DRUG ADDICTION PROBLEMS IN PRISONS IN ANDALUCÍA (SPAIN)

Abstract

There is a high prevalence of drug use in female prisoners in Spain. Studies on incarcerated women are scarce, and research on drug addiction in the prison context tends to ignore the gender dimension. Objective: To understand the female prisoners’ perception on the incarceration of women with drug addiction problems in prisons in Andalucía (Spain). Methodology: Qualitative, exploratory, and inductive methodology without previous hypotheses, following the Grounded Theory and supported by the Family Categorization process. In-depth semi-structured interviews are conducted with 10 women with drug addiction problems who are serving or have served a prison sentence. Results: The results show the women’s perceptions in relation to life trajectories, adaptive strategies, female image and identity and organization of centers. The current center organization model facilitates certain practices that violate psychosocial health as a fundamental right. Conclusions: Interviewees perceive that their imprisonment accentuates the double stigmatization already suffered. Furthermore, the organization of the centers does not favor re-education, social reintegration and, therefore, the psychosocial health of women with drug addiction problems.