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National Inmate Survey (NIS)

Data Collection Status
Active
Frequency
As funding permits
Latest Data Available
2012
Data Experts
Michael B. Field, BJS Statistician
Collection Period

As funding permits.

Description

The National Inmate Survey (NIS) is part of BJS's National Prison Rape Statistics Program, which gathers mandated data on the incidence and prevalence of sexual assault in correctional facilities under the Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 (PREA; P.L. 108-79). PREA requires a 10% sample of correctional facilities to be listed by incidence of sexual assault, with a minimum of one prison and one jail facility in each state. Data are collected directly from inmates in a private setting using audio computer-assisted self-interview (ACASI) technology with a touchscreen laptop and an audio feed to maximize inmate confidentiality and minimize literacy issues. See the methodology section in reports for sampling and weighting information.

Date Created: May 26, 2009