DefinePK

Abstract

This paper is based on stress appraisal and anger expression of women in prisons while focusing particularly on the experiences of mothers and non-mothers in prison through quantitative comparative survey. A sample of 135 women (non-mothers n = 25, mothers n = 110) in prison aged between 20 to 55 years was drawn from Central Jail Kot Lakhpat in Lahore, Pakistan, using purposive sampling technique. The Stress Appraisal Measure (SAM), Anger Expression Scale (AES), and State Shame & Guilt Scale (SSGS) were used for data collection. Results showed that there was no significant difference between the levels of stress appraisal and anger expression of mothers and non-mothers in prison. Additionally, different expression of anger such as internalized, externalized and anger control was also explored and findings suggested no significant difference between convicted and under trial mothers. The study highlights the need for interventions and support for both groups in prison to help them manage their stress and anger effectively. Suggestions for future research have also been provided to further explore the emotional experiences of mothers in prison.