The Forgotten Prisoners: The Imperative for Inclusion of Long Termers and Lifers in Research and Policy

• In Event: Neglected Populations in Reentry

Abstract

Over the course of the last 20 years, the prevalence of life sentences has increased substantially in the United States (Nellis & King, 2009). This paper draws attention to the fact that individuals serving life and long prison sentences have been largely overlooked by both researchers and policy-makers. We argue that there are various benefits to considering the challenges and issues that affect this population. In addition to the ethical and human rights concerns associated with the treatment of individuals serving long sentences, there are also several pragmatic justifications for this argument. Long termers and lifers spend a significant portion of their lives and criminal careers in prison; most are eventually released. These individuals can play a key role in the prison community, and potentially contribute to the development of a healthier prison climate. The well-being of individuals serving long sentences is also likely to have diffused benefits that would extend to their families, communities, and prison staff. We offer recommendations and promising directions for research and policy involving this population.

Authors

• Lila Kazemian, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY

• Jeremy Travis, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY