Are inclusive masculinities performed within prison settings?

In the current chapter, I critically reflect on recent advances within masculinity studies and in particular engage with Anderson’s inclusive masculinity theory, considering the extent to which such performances of masculinities are evident and possible within prison spaces. There emerge aspects of connection and disconnection with this theory, each illuminating how convicted adult male prisoners perform masculinities within prison spaces. I analyse interview data collected during a feasibility study, designed to adapt a public health intervention for prison settings, involving gyms in a number of Scottish prisons. This intervention was designed to encourage prisoners to better use prison gym and other sports facilities within prison, and to gain confidence in these parts of the prison to become healthier and fitter. Ultimately, I consider how performances of masculinities are shaped by the prison context and point to possible future tensions and areas of interaction between theories of masculinity developed within community settings and the analysis of masculinities within contemporary prisons.