Intersectionally-Responsive Correctional Strategies for Women

Introduction

  • Since the early 1990s, significant research has focused on effective correctional assessment and rehabilitative treatment, including gender-responsive strategies for women.
  • Limited research addresses the effects of correctional strategies on women with intersectional identities (e.g., racially diverse, LGBTQIA+).
  • Marginalized women are disproportionately over-represented in the U.S. correctional population, necessitating an intersectional lens in correctional strategies.

Key Concepts

Gender-Responsive Correctional Strategies
  • Originally challenged by feminist scholars due to the inadequacy of gender-neutral approaches for women (e.g., RNR model developed primarily for men).
  • Gender-responsive approaches prioritize factors relevant to women, such as safety, dignity, and the promotion of healthy relationships.
  • Emphasis on holistic treatment addressing trauma, substance abuse, and mental health issues.
Intersectionality and Intersectional Criminology
  • Intersectionality examines how various forms of marginalization (race, gender, sexuality) impact individual experiences and outcomes in society.
  • The concept acknowledges that women's experiences with law-breaking behavior are shaped by multiple identities and social structures contributing to discrimination.
  • "Intersectional criminology" incorporates these principles into criminological research and policy evaluation.

Disparities in Women's Incarceration

  • Women of Color, Latinas, and Native American women are over-represented in incarceration statistics.
  • From 1980 to 2012, women of Color were incarcerated at rates significantly higher than White women (seven times more likely).
  • Rates of incarceration among LGBTQIA+ individuals are also concerning, with many identifying as such while incarcerated.

Limitations of Current Approaches

  • Many correctional programs do not account for cultural and racial distinctions, emphasizing a 'one-size-fits-all' approach.
  • The need for individualized assessments that reflect diverse women's experiences is critical.
  • Limited empirical research exists on the differential outcomes of gender-responsive strategies across racial subgroups.

Framework for an Intersectionally-Responsive Approach

  1. Prior to Correctional-Involvement
    • Recognize intersectional pathways leading to incarceration.
    • Reevaluate sentencing practices to prevent bias against marginalized groups.
  2. Within Correctional Settings
    • Transform organizational cultures to support inclusivity.
    • Modify actuarial risk assessments to better reflect individual identities.
    • Improve staff-client interactions to foster supportive relationships that enhance the therapeutic alliance.
    • Ensure treatment programs address the specific needs of diverse female populations.
  3. After Correctional-Involvement
    • Provide community-based reentry services considering intersectional needs.
    • Research must include perspectives of those with lived experiences to improve inclusivity and effectiveness.

Conclusion

  • An intersectionally-responsive approach to correctional strategies aims to enhance the relevance and accessibility of programs for all women, particularly those at the margins.
  • Further empirical research is necessary to understand how different identities impact experiences with correctional strategies, shaping future policy and best practices.