The impact of environmental and psychological factors on sleep quality among incarcerated persons at a correctional center in Southern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to assess the impact of environmental and psychological factors on sleep quality among incarcerated persons at a correctional center in southern Ethiopia.

Design/methodology/approach: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Wolaita Sodo Town Correctional Center from April 01 to 30, 2023. A systematic random sampling technique was used to recruit study participants. Binary logistic regression analyses were used to show the association of independent variables and the outcome variable. In the multivariate analysis, p-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Findings: A 60.2% prevalence of poor sleep quality was found among study participants. Factors such as generalized anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, history of incarceration, not engaging in physical activities and lack of income-generating opportunities while in prison were significantly associated with poor sleep quality.

Research limitations/implications: The limitations of this study were that it is a cross-sectional study; therefore, causal-impact relationships cannot be determined, and the prison environment factor was assessed by a single question without a cut-off point.

Practical implications: The prevalence of poor sleep quality is notably high. Screening and treatment for depression and anxiety, promoting structured physical activity, income-generating opportunities and social reintegration training are crucial to reducing and preventing poor sleep quality.

Social implications: Determining the magnitude of poor sleep quality and identifying the impact of environmental and psychological factors on sleep quality is very crucial to intervene in the future.

Originality/value: This paper is novel by addressing the detailed psychological and environmental issues that affect the sleep quality of incarcerated people at correctional center.