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New methods of strengthening protective factors in VTOS

Publication at Faculty of Education |
2022

Abstract

The lecture followed on from previous research studies, which defined an area focused on the specific environment of the prison, which the respondents often mentioned in the interviews. Already during the actual construction of the prison, professional employees collaborated with the architect with the aim of creating an environment as supportive as possible in the process of resocialization and rehabilitation of convicts.

The employees themselves evaluated this environment as more developing than it is in ordinary prison facilities, which they evaluated as subject-poor, isolating with a desocializing effect. The aim of the OV environment is to get as close as possible to the civilian environment in order to ensure a smooth and smooth transition to freedom.

One of the tools for achieving this goal is a specific form of living in dormitories of the family house type. When describing this area, the respondents talked about the so-called "training" of life in an ordinary household with all areas (eg washing, cooking, ironing, etc.).

These self-service activities must be carried out together by the convicts, which in the future can help them solve common problems, communicate constructively, cooperate, etc. Furthermore, the psychological effect of hostels and the environment (garden, ornamental garden, outdoor gym, outdoor seating) has been emphasized several times. also therapeutic elements, as the convict is not in small and overcrowded rooms with limited movement as is the case in regular prison facilities.

The presence of animals in the execution of a prison sentence can be considered as another tool to get closer to the civilian environment. The use of animals can be considered as a means of therapy used by respondents when working with convicts.

Specifically, exotic and farm animals are used, for example, to train independence, maintain work habits, responsible behavior of convicts, gain new work experience and a new area for further education. At the same time, in the context of the use of animals when working with convicts, the respondents mentioned the "Paw in the palm" project, which is implemented in OV in cooperation with the Guide Dog Training School, s.r.o. and the Association Vodící pes, z.s., during which the convicts directly participate in the socialization of the puppy. future guide dog.

Convicts through this project gain motivation to help those in need, strengthen their own responsibility and their qualities (e.g. willpower, patience, determination, etc.) and last but not least, according to respondents, the presence of dogs has a positive impact on reducing tension between convicts.