IN-PERSON Prague Research & Teaching Conference
Abstract
The education of Norwegian prison officers focuses on values such as rehabilitation, humane treatment of incarcerated individuals and a strong focus on relationship building. The principles of prison officers’ education corroborates well with the notion of Nordic exceptionalism, a concept portraying Nordic prison systems as more humane compared to other countries. However, researchers have pointed out that the perception of Norwegian prisons as ‘exceptional’ is exaggerated. Following this, this study explores how key actors working in Norwegian prisons assess their education, responsibilities, working methods and treatment of prisoners, and whether their descriptions fit the idea of a Nordic exceptionalism. Drawing on qualitative interviews with 23 professionals from specialist healthcare and correctional services, this study addresses the role of education in supporting inmate rehabilitation. The data from the interviews were analyzed through systematic text condensation (Malterud, 2012). The findings highlight that the education of Norwegian prison officers emphasizes social reintegration, cognitive skill development, and non-repressive control strategies, promoting trust-based interactions with inmates. The informants describe the implementation of rehabilitation programs and milieu therapy routines. Despite this, challenges remain, including staff shortages and inconsistencies between official rhetoric and actual practice, where disciplinary measures persist despite reformist ideals. This study critically engages with Nordic exceptionalism. The article underscores the context-dependent nature of prison reforms, cautioning against uncritical adoption of Nordic models. Regarding education, it highlights the need for localized adaptation of educational programs to ensure that trust-building, humane treatment, and rehabilitation, can be effectively implemented in diverse prison systems.
Janne H. I. Helgesen holds a PhD in Criminology from the University of Oslo and a Master’s degree in welfare sciences from Lillehammer University College. With experience as a social worker, her research spans crime prevention, drug rehabilitation, interdisciplinary collaboration, leadership, and management. Currently, she focuses on police students’ learning outcomes in digital education. She has led academic groups at the University College of Norwegian Correctional Service and the Norwegian Police University College.
Marina Hiller Foshaugen – PhD candidate in Criminology from University of Oslo, and lecturer at the Norwegian Police University College. The PhD project explores policing and order maintenance in nightlife environments. Currently working on topics related to plural policing, security and crime prevention.
Ole Boe is a professor specializing in Preparedness and Crisis Managment at INN University of Inland Norway. He earned his PhD in judgment and decision-making from the University of Gothenburg. He has led national and international research projects focusing on education for unforeseen situations, leadership in extreme situations, enhancing combat mindset, and military leadership and leadership development. With 20 years of military service, his research interests further encompass character strengths, resilience, military psychology and humour, PTSD and PTG, and organizational behavior. He has published over 440 scientific articles, book chapters, and research reports. He is the co-author of 9 books.
11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Thursday 12th June, 2025