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A MODEL FOR INSTITUTIONAL DISTURBANCES
Author(s) -
Zeeman E. C.,
Hall C. S.,
Harrison P. J.,
Marriage G. H.,
Shapland P. H.
Publication year - 1976
Publication title -
british journal of mathematical and statistical psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.157
H-Index - 51
eISSN - 2044-8317
pISSN - 0007-1102
DOI - 10.1111/j.2044-8317.1976.tb00703.x
Subject(s) - prison , institution , sequence (biology) , econometrics , computer science , operations research , psychology , mathematics , criminology , sociology , social science , biology , genetics
Disturbances in institutions are often thought to be due to special local circumstances. This paper outlines a general mathematical model for sudden outbreaks of disorder in an institution. The model is illustrated by applying it to the escalating sequence of events at Gartree Prison during 1972. Although the approach is largely theoretical some suggestions are made about the prediction and handling of disorder. In particular, the model suggests why the policy of ‘playing it cool’ is generally likely to be successful.