Discussion and Conclusion

Abstract

Findings of the study on the dual nature of legitimacy in the post-socialist prison environment revealed that prison staff–prisoners relations present the linking factor between both types of internal legitimacy. To achieve the normative compliance of prisoners, prison workers must establish good and sincere relations with them. Two forms of compliance were identified as being important—instrumental and normative compliance. Findings also suggest that Tyler’s model of studying legitimacy is not entirely suitable for the Slovenian prison environment. Prison workers, from good relations with prisoners, receive much-needed confirmation of their work that reassures their role in the prison setting. In general, prison workers perceive their legitimacy positively, and are generally rather confident in performing their duties in the context of implementing authority. Moreover, positive perception of self-legitimacy influences their work performance and their willingness to establish and maintain the legitimacy relationship to prisoners through good maintaining good relations. However, the relative vagueness of their mission and the quite high recidivism among prisoners (approximately 50%) cause noteworthy frustration and confusion to prison workers that in some cases may lead to a professional identity crisis.