An exploratory study of sex and rape behind bars in a South African prison

Abstract

This study explores male inmates’ perceptions of sex and rape in a South African correctional center (prison). In South Africa, consensual sex between inmates is prohibited by the Department of Correctional Services and inmates are therefore reluctant to report on such activities. Furthermore, the prison code of silence and the shame from being the victim of a prison rape make this an exceptionally challenging topic to research. Despite these challenges, 100 face-to-face interviews were conducted with male inmates (children, juveniles, and adults) who were either awaiting trial or already sentenced for a criminal offence. The main focus was on their general viewpoints of consensual sex between men and prison rape victimization. This study was an exploratory study and because of the size of the sample this study cannot be generalized. It does, however, offer valuable insight into the prison subculture’s unwritten rules about sex and rape.