Inmates' Narratives and Discursive Discipline in Prison Rewriting personal histories through cognitive behavioral programs

'Foucault famously traced the focus of discipline from the body to the soul, but in this remarkable new book Jennifer Schlosser clearly demonstrates that the real focus is now squarely on the prisoner's self-narrative. Through what she terms "discursive discipline" the prisoner must repeat the pathetic mantra that imprisonment is the result of "bad choices" and cognitive mistakes, thereby disrupting the human need to make our lives understandable and bearable. Anyone who works with prisoners will instantly recognize the truth and deep insight in Schlosser's masterful argument. It is, to my mind, the final word on "responsibilization" in the name of treatment.' - Shadd Maruna, Dean, School of Criminal Justice, Rutgers University Newark, USA

'Schlosser talks to inmates about their lives, crimes and needs for successful re-entry. This simple act sets up an eye-opening critique of an inexpensive, widely used and superficially appealing rehabilitative program that sets up inmates to fail. With its theory of discursive discipline and practical suggestions for better programs, Schlosser delivers an important book for those interested in prison studies as well as "what works" for rehabilitation and re-entry.' - Paul S. Leighton, Professor, Eastern Michigan University, USA

'With Inmates' Narratives and Discursive Discipline in Prison, Jennifer Schlosser demonstrates that the contemporary prison system not only locks away inmates' bodies - it locks away their sense of self within enforced linguistic regimes of individual choice and responsibility. Significantly, Schlosser in turn proposes alternative approaches grounded in attentive social research and progressive justice policy, and so offers us a fine work of narrative criminology that interweaves critical analysis and practical application.' - Jeff Ferrell, Visiting Professor of Criminology, University of Kent, UK