The need for the development of female prisoners before their release from Bueng Kan Provincial Prison

Abstract

     This research aims 1) to study the development needs of female prisoners before their release in Bueng Kan Provincial Prison and 2) to find a way to develop female prisoners before their release in Bueng Kan Provincial Prison. This research is mixed methods research by use qualitative and quantitative research methods. The quantitative population is 130 female prisoners in Bueng Kan Provincial Prison. The sample was selected by purposive sampling. The research instrument was a questionnaire with a reliability of 0.98. Data were analyzed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient (α). The statistics used in data analysis were mean and standard deviation. The analysis of the development needs of female prisoners before their release in Bueng Kan Province was conducted using the Modified Priority Needs Index (PNI modified). The key qualitative data providers included the commander of Bueng Kan Provincial Prison, professional nurses, psychologists, female ward officers, and the director of the Bueng Kan Provincial Probation Office, totaling 5 people. The responsibilities of the positions related to the study were considered, their work experience, and their research instrument was an interview form. Data were collected using in-depth interviews, and the results of the study were used for content analysis.
     The research results found that 1) The need for development of female prisoners before release from Bueng Kan Provincial Prison had the highest average value, which was vocational preparation, followed by physical development. 2) Suggested development approaches include organizing physical education and recreational activities with appropriate facilities and equipment based on supported by the prison. This program should be based on the physical condition of the prisoners. Additionally, learning resources should be created to promote moral development and self-discipline suitable for prisoners of all ages. Experts in psychiatry should be invited to assess the mental health of prisoners regularly, at least once a year. Efforts should also be made to promote self-awareness and self-esteem among prisoners. Family bonding activities should be organized at least twice a year. Furthermore, training should be provided to develop diverse vocational skills, offering prisoners opportunities to practice real-world work to gain expertise in their respective fields.