The aim of this article is to descrik a sociological research wich subject approachs the criminal recidivism and violence in the prisons of the Sao Paulo State (Brazil). It discuss methodological questions about the process of subject’s construction, the relationship between researcher and researched, the differents technics and methods of research like histories of life.
crime; violence; prison; recidivism; Sao Paulo (Brazil); 1974-1985.