Prisoner intentions to participate in an electronic monitoring scheme: An application of the theory of planned behaviour

Purpose
There is a need to address the implications of offender electronic monitoring (EM) within Ireland. Thus this research examined prisoner EM participation intentions through an application of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) (Ajzen, 1991).
Design/methodology/approach
A male sample (n=101) from two Dublin prisons completed a TPB survey anonymously.
Findings
The moderately favourable prisoner attitudes suggested positive orientations towards participation in EM but did suggest some perceived difficulties. Subjective norms had a strong positive influence on intentions.
Research limitations/implications
Prisoner intentions were generally positive towards EM participation. This bodes well for future EM schemes in Ireland. It is also essential to gather other perspectives relevant to the prison system, when implementing EM.
Originality/value
The TPB offers an effective approach to understanding prisoner's EM intentions. More specifically, the TPB pinpointed the prisoners’ favourable intentions towards participating in an EM scheme by highlighting the influence of positive attitudes towards EM and their strong belief that significant others shared these positive attitudes.