The monographic study based on role theory (role theory), modern concepts of psychology, sociology, conflictology and jurisprudence represents a non-standard analysis of the penitentiary process. As a result of the study, universal factors are identified that lead the process of execution of punishment in the form of imprisonment to a state of criminal crisis. The cornerstone of the study was the conclusion that the root cause of conflicts in places of detention with criminal dynamics is the presence of an archaic penitentiary paradigm among employees of the use of power. The results of the study formed the basis for specific proposals, the implementation of which will contribute to the formation of a new (rational) penitentiary paradigm. The monograph is intended for students of specialized universities, teachers, scientists, employees of the penal system and, to a greater extent, for the heads of correctional institutions, on whom the organization of the penitentiary process depends.