Perceived Procedural Justice, Criminal Identity, and Self-Concept Among Incarcerated Persons: The Indirect Effect of Prison Social Climate
November 3rd, 2025
Among the contributions published in the October issue of the Journal Criminal Justice and Behavior is the article “Perceived Procedural Justice, Criminal Identity, and Self-Concept Among Incarcerated Persons: The Indirect Effect of Prison Social Climate” by Ioana Florina Marina and Andrei Corneliu Holman.
The study explores how incarcerated individuals’ perception of procedural justice—that is, the feeling of being treated fairly, respectfully, and transparently by prison staff—shapes their identity and self-perception. Based on a sample of 149 men held in a Romanian penitentiary, the authors show that when prisoners perceive fair treatment, they also experience a more cohesive and supportive prison climate and a weaker identification with criminal roles or norms. The article thus highlights how the relational and moral quality of prison life plays a crucial role in rehabilitation and identity transformation processes among incarcerated people.
To read the full article, please consult the following link.