Exploring Satisfaction and the Perception of Economic Impact among Communities Hosting Correctional Institutions: A Qualitative Examination of Four Rural Communities in Pennsylvania
Susan H. Packard, Kevin E. Courtright

Abstract
This study examined factors found to be problematic in the prison-community relationship and in perceptions of the economic impact of correctional institutions in four rural Pennsylvania communities. Focus group interviews provided data that the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections and rural communities can use when seeking to improve prison-community relationships or when new prison construction is being considered. The content analysis revealed important themes, and the relevance of each theme is discussed regarding how correctional institutions and host communities might improve strained relationships. This study helps to fill a void within the literature related to prison siting and prison-community relationships.

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