Voices from Behind Prison Walls

Abstract

This study investigated the effects that training service dogs had on women in a multi-level security prison in California. Through semi-structured interviews, the inmates discussed the challenges and benefits of involvement in this program. The findings suggested that participation in training service dogs had positive effects on the women in the areas of emotional and or physical health, self-concept, goal-directed behaviors, empathy and self-control; and it resulted in an increase in positive interactions with other inmates and officers. The greatest challenge for the women was interacting with inmates and officers who were not supportive of the program.