EFFECTS OF IMPRISONMENT ON INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS AMONG FEMALE INMATES IN SELECTED PRISONS IN KENYA

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between imprisonment and interpersonal relationship among female inmates in selected prisons in Kenya. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. A total of 295 respondents formed the survey sample. The sample comprised of 291 female inmates’ and 4 prison staff. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling methods were used to select the respondents. The study utilized questionnaires, interview schedules and an observation guide as instruments for data collection. Piloting was conducted in one selected prison to enable the researcher to improve on the reliability and validity of the research instruments. The reliability of the research instruments was estimated using Cronbach Alpha Coefficient. The instruments yielded a reliability coefficient of 0.857 which was considered appropriate for the study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. The study established that there was a statistically significant relationship between imprisonment and interpersonal relationship among female inmates in Kenyan prisons.