A Systematic Review of Intragroup Aggression Among Prisoners: Proposing the Diffusion Model

To date, there has been no attempt to synthesize research into prisoner-to-prisoner aggression. The current paper identified 362 articles, with 59 entering the review. A thematic analysis produced six superordinate themes capturing individual/social risk markers, who were involved, attitudes, environmental factors, a role for fear, and staff involvement. Findings are integrated into a proposed model – the Diffusion Model for intraGroup Aggression among Prisoners [DM-GAP]. This presents an understanding as to the causes of intragroup aggression and how incidents can be formulated. Future research should build on the unique factors underpinning intragroup aggression, emphasizing more the role of the environment.