Alcoholism as a social phenomenon and criminogenic factor – correlations on the example of convicts serving prison sentences in the therapeutic system in the District Inspectorate of the Prison Service in Białystok

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to examine the correlation between alcoholism and crime using the example of convicts serving prison sentences in the therapeutic system in the District Inspectorate of the Prison Service in Białystok. The research methods used were the following: a diagnostic survey, literature analysis and statistical method. Among the analyzed data, data obtained from the databases of the Central Board of the Prison Service and penitentiary units subordinated to the District Inspectorate of the Prison Service in Białystok were particularly valuable. The analysis of the source material collected in this way made it possible to determine the convicts opinion regarding alcoholism as a factor causing criminal behavior. The research conducted on convicts serving prison sentences in penitentiary units subordinated to the District Inspectorate of the Prison Service in Białystok shows that among convicts exposed to alcoholism, the percentage of committing crimes was significantly higher compared to those who did not abuse alcohol. Additionally, research showed that the frequency of alcohol consumption was positively correlated with crime. For this reason, the conclusions resulting from the conducted research should be thought-provoking and are important for the development of effective intervention and prevention programs aimed at reducing alcoholism and crime in society.The article concerns the correlation between alcoholism and crime on the example of convicts serving prison sentences in the therapeutic system in the District Inspectorate of the Prison Service in Białystok. This type of research has not been conducted in the presented District.

Keywords

• alcoholism
• criminogenic factor
• prison sentence
• therapeutic system
• convicts