Evaluating Contextual Correlates of Punitiveness in a Prison Setting

• In Event: Insights from New Approaches to Corrections Research

Abstract

The goal of this paper is to advance knowledge about the factors that influence discretionary decisions to place incarcerated people in restrictive housing. To do so, we examine decisions to use disciplinary segregation in response to infractions and whether external context—that is, the county-level context in which prison facilities reside—influence punitiveness in these decisions. We examine two outcomes: general punitiveness and racially disparate punitiveness. Our analyses draw from theory and research on court sentencing that indicate that characteristics of places can influence decisions to use harsh punishment. This paper works to adapt several prominent perspectives relevant to sentencing literature to the prison context. Findings highlight important implications for theory, research, and policy.

Authors

• Katie Leigh, University of Cincinnati

• Joshua C. Cochran, University of Cincinnati

• John Wooldredge, University of Cincinnati