What does "importation" mean in the context of prison life?

In the context of prison life, "importation" refers to the aspects of life that inmates bring with them into the prison environment. This concept highlights how an individual's background, experiences, and behaviors from the outside world influence their conduct and interactions within the prison system. For example, an inmate's social norms, values, and learned behaviors can affect their relationships with fellow inmates and prison staff. This idea suggests that the prison environment is not devoid of the individual's history and influences, meaning that the dynamics of prison life are shaped by the characteristics and experiences of the incarcerated individuals. Understanding this can help address issues related to rehabilitation, behavior management, and the overall social environment within prisons.