Chapter 12 the incarceration of women

explain why women in prison called the forgotten offenders

women make up a small portion of the correctional population. The offenses that women commit are usually less serious than those committed by men.  some observers claim that Woman's Place in the correctional justice system reflects broader societal attitudes that put all women in subservient positions. unfortunately, the status of Forgotten offender has several negative consequences including Discriminatory treatment from judges, few prison programs, and little attention from criminals Justice Scholars. 

the history of the incarceration of women

Women were housed with men in prisons until 1870, facing poor conditions, and pushed for gender-specific policies 1) separate male and female prisoners 2) different care standards 3) female-led management of women's prisons. Reforms led by Elizabeth Fry in England and later efforts in the U.S. promoted separate facilities, female supervision, and basic work opportunities. The first federal women’s prison opened in 1927, aiming to build women’s self-respect through skill-building. By the 1940s, rehabilitative programs focused on stereotypical “feminine” skills like hairdressing, but as prison populations grew in the 1970s and 1980s, resources shifted towards male prisoners.

explain how interpersonal relationships in women’s prisons differ from those in mens prison

Norms and male presents emphasize autonomy, self-sufficiency, and the ability to cope with one's own problems. men are expected to do their own time and they share very little with one another. in contrast women develop close ties and form small Groups that are similar to families providing emotional support and sharing resources. women also place fewer restrictions on sexual and emotional conduct 

the special issues that incarcerated women face

1. Sexual Misconduct: Women are vulnerable to sexual exploitation by prison staff, leading to stress, lawsuits, and a hostile environment.

2. Limited Programs: Women’s prisons lack diverse vocational and educational programs, focusing mainly on stereotypically “feminine” skills.

3. Inadequate Medical Care: Women’s prisons often lack adequate healthcare, despite women’s higher rates of serious health and gynecological needs.

4. Parenting Challenges: Most incarcerated women were primary caregivers, and over half are unable to see their children while in prison. Some states have visitation programs to address this issue.

the problems that women face when they are released to the community

many women who are released from prison have serious health care needs and extensive histories of substance abuse. many of these women are poor and would like to regain custody of their children. many of these women have no place to go and must find a place to live, but federal laws restricting subsidized housing and landlords who are reluctant to rent to someone who was in prison can make doing so difficult. research has demonstrated that women benefit from assistance when reentering society, such as help from friends and family and state-funded resources, to become self-sufficient and stay out of prison