Alternatives to imprisonment : Gozo’s general public perspective on alternatives to imprisonment

Abstract

The main aim of this dissertation is to compare the Gozitans’ perspectives on alternatives to imprisonment. In this research literature related to prison alternatives and public perception on such sanctions was reviewed. From the literature review it emerged that public attitudes were affected by ethnicity, race, age, gender, education, place of residence, social class together with personal income. Moreover, this research sought to compare different prison alternatives including probation orders and community service orders. A quantitative approach was used in order to gather data related to the subject. Printed questionnaires were handed out in popular places in Gozo such as the popular village squares to Gozitans who were at least eighteen years old. These printed questionnaires were crucial in providing information related to which crimes people perceive as meriting alternatives to imprisonment. They also provided information related to which alternatives are more likely to be supported by the general public. The results collected through the use of printed questionnaires were discussed and analysed in relation to the literature review. It is evident that well-informed and well-educated persons tend to support alternatives to imprisonment. It is also interesting that public support increases when the public is presented with cost effective alternatives especially in the case of non-violent offenders.