Ethnographic Themes Associated with Life in Restricted Housing Units

• In Event: Poster Session I

Abstract

Powerful ethnographic themes emerge when comparing research on solitary confinement by Craig Haney and death row confinement by Robert Johnson. Powerlessness, fear, and emotional emptiness are heavily woven throughout the works of both Haney and Johnson. This may then suggest that long-term solitary and traditionally isolated death rows present similar, harmful effects for their inhabitants. Last year, after reviewing the available literature, Justice Department officials concluded that the harmful consequences of long-term solitary confinement must be addressed. The Justice Department directed federal prisons to review their use of the practice. States that reduced the use of solitary confinement showed positive results such as a significant drop in the number of assaults on staff. Similar benefits might obtain following reduced isolation on death rows.

Authors

• Robert Johnson, American University

• Meghan Maree Ballard, American University