Solitary Confinement in the United States: A Content Analysis of State Policies

• In Event: Posters II

Abstract

Throughout its use as a form of punishment, much controversy has surrounded the concept of solitary confinement or segregation. This practice is most commonly used in order to punish disciplinary infractions, although there are also several other reasons inmates are segregated as well. To date, there exists no systematic examination of the state-level policies regarding the practices of solitary confinement in the United States. This content analysis aims to assess the current state of solitary confinement policies within the United States. Using data collected from department of corrections websites across the United States, this study examines the extent to which variation exists across policies. Several domains of variation are considered including types of segregation, eligibility, implementation, and post-confinement review. Macro-level social and political factors that may account for the variation between states are explored. Implications for policy and future research are discussed.

Authors

• Rachel Severson, University of South Florida

• Ráchael Powers, University of South Florida