Tales from prison: reflections on a decade of offender research

Purpose In this short article, I make reflections from prison research studies I have undertaken over the last ten years. Design/Methodology/Approach Some reflections come from personal diaries while others are just lasting memories which made a significant impact on me as a young researcher. Findings The reflections highlight several important aspects of researching prisons: a) that people in prison may be quite selective about information they disclose if interviewed; b) that prisons, rather than prisoners, can act as significant barriers for researchers – operationally as well as institutionally; and c) this why the researcher should try to go beyond ‘the interview’ at all opportunities and look to engage as much as possible with interviewees – even if it means walking around the wing, playing pool with them or seeing their cells. Originality/value The short article will be useful for any researchers entering custody with the task of undertaking quick-fire research studies