Research on inmate fear of sexual assault is sparse in sociological and correctional journals. Studies that examine wardens’ perceptions of inmate fear of sexual assault are nonexistent in the literature. Therefore, using data gathered from 226 wardens of state correctional institutions, this study examines which demographic and institutional factors significantly affect wardens’ perceptions of inmate fear of sexual assault within their institutions. Sex of the institution, security level, and number of officially reported inmate sexual assaults within the facilities were the most salient predictors of wardens’ beliefs in the prevalence of inmate fear of sexual assault. Policy implications are also addressed.
