Based on a survey of 17 institutions in 14 States and the Federal Bureau of Prisons, the study is the first effort to date to evaluate and compare the impact of correctional grievance mechanisms. "Mechanism" is used in a generic sense throughout this study and maybe defined as any administrative process through which the complaints of inmates are expressed and resolved. Through its own earlier work in the design, implementation and evaluation of grievance mechanisms, the Center for Correctional Justice identified three basic types of mechanisms: ombudsmen, grievance procedures, and inmate councils. At each institution, researchers interviewed administrators, staff, and inmates. They administered questionnaires to inmates, observed grievance proceedings, and where available, examined records. The result is a comprehensive guide for designing and implementing equitable grievance procedures which should aid correctional administrators in fashioning an improved grievance process. (Appended material includes: brief descriptions of the 16 mechanisms surveyed for the study; questionnaire and tabulated responses; and, a list of sample training materials and case studies available from the Center for Correctional Justice.) (Author)