Total Institution

Definition of Total Institution

The Canada social science dictionary [1] provides the following meaning of Total Institution: A social institution which encompasses the individual, cutting them off from significant social interaction outside its bounds. These institutions are frequently involved in the process of resocialization whereby individuals are detached from their previous sense of identity and re-shaped to accept and absorb new values and behaviour. Examples include religious orders, prisons and army training camps.

Total Institution: Resources

Notes and References

• Drislane, R., & Parkinson, G. (2016). (Concept of) Total Institution. Online dictionary of the social sciences. Open University of Canada