Institutions and the Individual

Can you imagine a life in which the most basic of human rights such as the freedom of movement and the right to safety and protection are violated or virtually taken away? It is often hard to comprehend an existence characterized by confinement, violence and oppressive authoritarian regimes; but in reality this is the nature of everyday life for an individual who has been institutionalized within an organization purposed for rehabilitation, incarceration and deterrence.

The term “institution” is broadly defined as an organization or establishment for the promotion of a particular object, usually one for some public, educational, charitable or similar purpose; however, my discussion will be in relation to those institutions designed for correctional purposes, for example prisons, juvenile detention centers and refugee detention centers. Key features including strict systems of rules and codes of conduct, hierarchical social structures as well as elements of power and authority distinguish these facilities. The question, which remains after investigating the nature, features and functions of correctional institutions is whether their intention to reform and rehabilitate can ever be achieved; do the conditions and structures of these establishments cause more harm than help?

The novel ‘Raw’ by Scott Monk provides an insightful view into the roles and nature of juvenile detention centres as well as the ways in which institutionalized individuals are affected by their surrounding environment and the experiences of which they are forced to undertake. “Raw” centers on the experiences of a 16-year old boy who has been sent to “The Farm” after numerous encounters with the law and a series of misdemeanors- Brett Dalton. Initially, “The Farm” appears to be a somewhat pleasant environment; almost inviting with its wide-open spaces and no visible signs of confinement “he was expecting at least a concentration camp patrolled by Dobermans…it was little more than a large country house”. Brett’s early reactions to the institution are ones of disregard and rebellion; he views “The Farm” as a “pushover” and is determined not to act within the rules or intentions of the detention centre. “The Farm”, administered by Sam and Mary Fraser, is founded on the principle of reform and the individual’s responsibility and choice to change their own life “only you can change your life”. The relaxed nature of “The Farm” along with its minimal security and lack of imposing boundaries appears to offer the perfect environment for reform and rehabilitation; personal choice is highlighted rather than law enforcement. However, an underlying system of violence and intimidation is evident between the boys- Tyson Jones and his gang use brutality and force to govern the inner workings of “The Farm”. Contrasting outcomes and impacts consequent to the experiences of “The Farm” can be clearly seen between Tyson, Brett and Josh Collins; a young Aboriginal boy who works at “The Farm” despite finishing his preposed time of detention. Tyson exemplifies “The Farm”s failure to reform and change his perceptions, he continues to be involved in criminal activities and does not take responsibility for his own life or his future- a key aspect of this institution. Brett’s transformation is evident as he begins to understand the benefits of compliance and becomes a more empathic character; his experience at “The Farm” has been one of personal growth and acknowledgment whereby his perception of himself, the world and other has been altered, “he had turned his life around”. Josh appears to be the success story of “The Farm”, he demonstrates that people can overcome adversity and become “model citizens”. His continued work at “The Farm” illustrates that he has recognised his achievements and that he is hopeful to better his life even more.