Data came from structured interviews of 123 of the inmates during December 1986 and January 1987. The subjects were randomly selected and represented all types of housing at the institution. The sample formed approximately 25 percent of the facility's population. The population is primarily young adult males. Sixty-three percent are minorities, and 14 percent do not speak English as their main language. Most are from Boston, particularly Dorchester, Roxbury, and South Boston. Ninety percent report at least one prior incarceration. Half are currently incarcerated for property offenses, 21 percent for drug offenses, 16 percent for violent offenses, and 13 percent for other offenses. Thirty-four percent are alcohol abusers or alcoholics; 54 percent used drugs daily in the 3 months before incarceration. Inmates are generally aware of programs and are either taking part or express a desire to take part. Findings indicate the need of many inmates for programming, particularly in the areas of alcohol abuse, drug abuse, mental health counseling, medical services, education, and job training. Data tables.