Also explored was the role of the convict subculture and sexual code as it pertained to prison life in general and to the older prisoner in particular. Coping strategies of these older prisoners were measured in terms of adjustment to prison life as defined by the subculture. Life satisfaction measures were based on self-reports of satisfaction along with a discussion of social support systems that had developed within the prison groups. Findings indicated tha aged men in a medium security prison were able to satisfactorily cope with their situation. Older men tended to have an easier time in prison primarily because of their more mature approach to life in general and their socialization to more traditional values, such as work. The effects of the convict subculture and sexual code appeared to influence the behavior of the older inmate to a lesser degree than the younger inmate, although ethnic differences and the inmate's self-identity as a convict were mitigating factors. Most of the older men were not sexually active; they had been sentenced to brief terms for alcohol related offenses, vehicular manslaughter, and assault. For them, ongoing contacts with friends in prison and family members outside prison were common and allowed them to receive sufficient social support so that their outlook on life remained positive. A total of 9 references are included. (Author abstract modified)