Task Type and Resource Allocation Patterns in Multiple-Task Self-Regulation

Engaging in multiple tasks is a common and important issue in many achievement settings. This research examined task type (quantitative and qualitative) and resource allocation (time) trends in this context. Prior research has focused largely on quantitative tasks and general predictor-allocation relationships, neglecting qualitative tasks and the potential for multiple distinct allocation trends. These issues were examined in two studies (N = 75 and N = 118) involving quantitative and qualitative tasks. Results indicated that over time participants reduced resource allocation to the qualitative task but not to the quantitative task. Both studies also revealed multiple distinct allocation trends in addition to these general patterns. These findings highlight the importance of examining different task types and exploring for multiple distinct trends underlying broader patterns in multiple task research.     

Women's Perceptions of the Prison Environment: When Prison is "the safest place i've ever been"

Incarcerated women's perceptions of the prison environment were explored with respect to relative level of safety from interpersonal abuse in prison as compared to before incarceration. Perceived levels of safety were analyzed based on reported past experiences of interpersonal violence. Participants were 65 women incarcerated in a medium security prison for women with mental and physical health problems. Women's perceptions of safety were evaluated using close–ended quantitative and open–ended qualitative self–report questions. The results suggest that, for some women, prison may be a relatively safe environment and that perceived level of safety may vary with the extent of previous experience of interpersonal violence in childhood and adulthood. Given that the structure of correctional institutions often incorporates abusive dynamics, the directionality of the findings is theoretically and socially important. The patterns apparent in these data are also consistent with other research and theory on the experiences of incarcerated women.