correctionals test

Country that incarcerates the most women

United States

State with the largest female inmate population

texas

Most women are in the

 Federal prison system

Rachel Welch

Became pregnant while in solitary confinement at Auburn Prison in New York. Died after childbirth following a beating by a guard.

Elizabeth Fry

Quaker prison activist who highlighted the problems women faced in prisons.

Chivalry Hypothesis

• The criminal justice system may give women less harsh punishments than men.

• Women may receive more lenient treatment unless they are habitual offenders.

Reformatories

• Developed as an alternative to harsh penitentiary conditions.

• Focused on improving conditions instead of enforced silence and hard labor.

Pseudo-Family Environment

Women in prison often create family-like relationships and support systems.

Female Offenders as Mothers

• Babies may be separated from mothers 24 hours after birth.

• Mothers may return to their cells within 48 hours.

• CPS may become involved.

• Children may enter foster care or live with family.

• Some prisons offer specialized programs and facilities.

BAMBI Program

Baby and Mother Bonding Initiative

Allows mothers and infants to bond in a residential facility.

Important facts:

• Begins approximately 3 months before the due date.

• Allows mothers and babies to stay together for up to 12 months.

• Mothers receive education about:

  • Child development.

  • Life skills.

  • First aid and CPR.

  • Nutrition.

  • Family education.

Collateral Damage

The negative effects of incarceration on both the mother and child.

Glover v. Johnson (1988)

• Lawsuit against the Michigan Department of Corrections.

• Addressed violations of female inmates' constitutional rights.