The Impact of Segregation on Trauma and Mental Health among Jail Inmates

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

Solitary confinement, also referred to as segregation, has been used in jails and prisons since the early 1800s (Arrigo & Bullock, 2008). It is typically a disciplinary measure, but has evolved as a management tool to ensure facility safety. Research on segregation suggests it is detrimental to mental health (see Smith, 2006). This is especially troubling for inmates who enter segregation with mental illnesses given the consequent enhanced risk of suicide (Liebling, 1992). The wealth of literature on segregation has focused on prison populations, and thus we know little about its use in jails – particularly with respect to who is being placed in segregation and what psychological problems they face.

We surveyed 300 male and 70 female inmates from a Northeast jail (83% racial/ethnic minority; mean age=35 years). Analyses revealed that inmates placed in segregation have more trauma history pre-incarceration (p=.02). Additionally, compared to those who were not segregated, individuals placed in segregation at Time 1 have significantly higher levels of anxiety at Time 2, beyond Time 1 anxiety levels (p=.04). Results will be discussed with respect to the need for trauma-informed care in segregated jail populations.

Authors

• Ashley Schappell, Rutgers University

• Paul Boxer, Rutgers University

• Sheila Solano, Rutgers University

• Dale Suanino, Rutgers University