Communication Problems and Language Barriers Between Foreign Inmates and Prison Officers

This study uses communication accommodation theory to explain communication strategies used by foreign inmates towards prison officers. A qualitative method using one-to-one, semistructured interviews was used. The sample consisted of 19 inmates. Through a content analysis of the transcripts, three themes were identified: social and cultural differences, emotional and psychological burdens, and withdrawing from others. Prison officers in intercultural interactions with inmates were perceived as discriminatory and with little attention to foreign inmates’ cultural needs. The main finding in this study is that foreign inmates choose to isolate themselves to avoid confrontation with prison officers. This fact should inspire prison staff to develop adequate interventions to reduce aggression and to promote better communication skills for inmates and prison officers alike.