Social relations and health determinants: reflections on the incarcerated population in the light of Betty Neuman

Abstract

Introduction: The increase in the world's prison population is recorded in the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report, with a 25% increase since 2000. We live in a society with power structures, in global scenarios, that are real both inside and outside prison and that place the population in a vulnerable position. Objective: To reflect on social relations in the determinants of the health of the population deprived of their liberty, in the light of Betty Neuman's theory. Methodology: Theoretical essay, with a search carried out between January and March 2022. Results: The living conditions of this population are affected not only by illness but also by social structures that determine relationships before, during and after incarceration. Conclusions: Social relations in the health determinants of the incarcerated population are impaired. Studies are limited, reiterating the need for research in the area of prison healthcare so that we can act on the different facets of the prison system's structure. Understanding social relations, their determinants of health and their influence on the incarcerated population and civil society is essential to guarantee the effectiveness of human rights, health care and resocialization, with a view to social development as a whole.