by Maureen O'Keefe
One researcher who specializes in corrections discusses the
study's strengths and limitations, the impassioned response to its findings,
and areas for further research.
The practice of incarcerating inmates in long-term
segregation is an emotionally charged topic. Human rights advocates oppose it,
particularly for inmates with mental illness, while corrections personnel deem
it necessary for the safe operation of their facilities. The practice has been
criticized as being psychologically damaging, excessively harsh and inhumane
(i.e., lack of programs and services, minimal control over environment, limited
access to the outdoors), prone to abuses by staff, and lacking in adequate step-down
programs for those releasing to the streets. Media coverage and litigation have
fueled the debate, while advocates and researchers have called attention to the
lack of quality research, including the lack of evidence supporting its
effectiveness in reducing prison violence.
A research team in Colorado sought to fill a gap in the
research and advance the empirical dialogue around segregation. With support
from NIJ, researchers (including the author), academics, prison officials, and
human rights advocates conducted a longitudinal study of the psychological
effects of solitary confinement, particularly for inmates diagnosed with a
mental illness. We had hoped that empirical evidence would help develop some
common ground — but instead our findings seemed to divide the sides even
further.
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