Games Criminals Play

Games Criminals Play examines manipulation tactics used by inmates to compromise correctional staff. The book details the step-by-step process through which prisoners attempt to gain control over officers and other prison employees. The authors draw from real case studies and interviews to demonstrate how inmates identify and exploit staff vulnerabilities. They outline specific warning signs and manipulation techniques that correctional workers must recognize to maintain professional boundaries. The text provides practical strategies for staff to protect themselves from manipulation and maintain security within correctional facilities. It includes guidance on proper responses to common inmate tactics and methods for preserving professional distance. This work stands as a fundamental text on power dynamics and psychological manipulation within institutional settings. Its insights extend beyond corrections to inform understanding of predatory behavior and defensive awareness in many professional contexts.

Readers describe this as a practical guide for corrections officers and law enforcement to recognize and prevent manipulation by inmates. Most reviews come from active or former corrections staff who use the techniques in their daily work. Readers appreciate: - Clear examples of manipulation tactics - Prevention strategies that work in real situations - Case studies showing how inmates groom staff - Focus on maintaining professional boundaries Common criticisms: - Information feels dated (book published in 1981) - Writing style is basic and repetitive - Some examples seem exaggerated - Price is high for a short book Ratings: Amazon: 4.7/5 (647 reviews) Goodreads: 4.2/5 (456 ratings) One corrections officer noted: "This book saved my career by helping me spot manipulation attempts early." A critic wrote: "The concepts are valid but could be covered in 50 pages instead of 208." The book remains required reading at many corrections academies and training programs.

Con Games and Cons in Prison by Dennis Sifakis A catalog of manipulation tactics and psychological games used by inmates to exploit staff and other prisoners.

Behind Bars: Surviving Prison by Jeffrey Ian Ross, Stephen C. Richards A detailed examination of prison dynamics, staff-inmate relationships, and institutional manipulation strategies from two criminologists with insider experience.

Prison Guide: Prison Survival Secrets Revealed by Michael Powell A compilation of real prison manipulation scenarios and countermeasures based on experiences of correctional officers and inmates.

The Art of Manipulation by R.B. Sparkman An analysis of manipulation techniques used in institutional settings with focus on identifying and countering psychological control methods.

Understanding Prison Culture by Peter M. Carlson and Judith Simon Garrett A comprehensive breakdown of prison social structures and the manipulation methods that emerge within correctional institutions.

📚 The book was first published in 1981 and remains a foundational text in correctional officer training programs across the United States. 🔒 Authors Bud Allen and Diana Bosta developed their insights from real cases of staff manipulation in California prisons, documenting how inmates systematically "set up" prison employees. 👥 The book introduced the concept of "downing," which describes how inmates gradually manipulate staff through seemingly innocent interactions that eventually lead to compromising situations. 📋 Many state departments of corrections have made this book mandatory reading for new correctional officers, and its principles are taught in criminal justice programs nationwide. 🔍 The manipulation tactics described in the book have been found relevant beyond prison walls, with applications in law enforcement, social work, and other fields where professional boundaries are essential.