Understanding Prison Slang: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to understanding prison slang in the UK. A captivating snapshot of prison life, these arcane expressions provide valuable insights into the unique challenges that inmate’s face.

Top Prison Slangs in the UK:

• Chokey: Originally used in British public schools, ‘Chokey’ has found another home in prison lingo referring to the prison itself.
• Screws: A slang term for prison officers. Some argue it originates from the act of ‘screwing down’ mentally exerting control on prisoners.
• Bang up: Means to be confined to your cell – you’ve been ‘banged up’. It’s primarily used to describe the lockdown period.
• Goafer: A Goafer isn’t an animal in prison lingo–it’s a note, letter, or any form of written communication.
• Peterman: The Peterman is the safe cracker – usually a highly skilled inmate who specializes in breaking into safes.

How Do Prison Slangs Evolve?

Prison slang rapidly evolves to suit the dynamic prison environment. Initially created as a secret jargon used among prison inmates, over time, certain terms become mainstream and they are replaced by new ones. Some slangs are created as a means to communicate without the prison officers understanding, and others stem from creativity or humour.

Impact of Prison Slangs on Rehabilitation:

The use of prison slangs can make the rehabilitation process more challenging. Many released prisoners, when faced with a society that doesn’t understand this lingo, may feel disconnected and tend to associate more with other former prisoners facing similar issues, instead of integrating with society. Efforts should be taken inside the prisons to discourage the use of such language, aiding the process of rehabilitation.

The Linguistic Variation in UK Prisons:

While this guide provides a basic understanding of common slang, it is essential to remember that there is regional variation within the UK. What is used in a London prison might vastly differ from slangs in a Midlands’ prison.

Conclusion:

Understanding prison slang can provide a fascinating insight into the prison society, reflecting the unique culture within the walls. However, it’s essential to remember that a prisoner’s language leans heavily on these slangs and it can pose a barrier to their successful reintroduction into general society. Replacing this lingo with common English will be a significant step in aiding the UK’s prison rehabilitation process.