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Frequently Asked Questions About Prison

Discover answers to commonly-asked questions about prison.


Frequently asked questionsIt has been said that visiting a prison is like visiting a foreign country. This "foreign land" has its own language, code of acceptable behavior, food, and way of dress.

To help volunteers understand more about the prison environment, we've prepared a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about prison.

  • What is the difference between jail and a prison?
  • Do all jails and prisons offer religious programs to inmates?
  • How available are chaplains to prisoners?
  • How do prisoners typically spend their days?
  • What types of educational programs are available to prisoners?
  • What types of jobs do prisoners have?
  • How does the prison commissary system work?
  • What type of medical care do prisoners receive?
  • Why is respect so important within the prison environment?
  • What is protective custody (PC)? Does it reduce violence?
  • What are the consequences for breaking prison rules?
  • What is administrative segregation ("ad seg")?

OTHER RESOURCES YOU MIGHT LIKE

RESOURCES FOR PRISONERS
Helpful and encouraging prisoner resources

FAQS ABOUT CHILDREN OF PRISONERS
Gain insight into the problems children face when a parent goes to prison.


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