Qualitative Examination of Correctional Programming for Incarcerated Women

Increase in Incarceration Rates

• Over the past 40 years, the incarceration rate for women has surged significantly.
• Between 1978 and 2015, the male state prison population increased by 367.0%, whereas the women's population increased by 834.0%.
• Justice-involved women often experience higher rates of mental health issues, substance abuse, and caregiving responsibilities compared to men.

Need for Gender-Responsive Programming

• Current correctional programming has largely been based on male experiences and needs, neglecting women’s specific issues.
• Justice-involved women typically require different services due to lower offending rates, distinct types of offenses, and higher victimization levels.
• There is a gap in understanding the perceptions of incarcerated women regarding the correctional programs available to them.

Characteristics of Incarcerated Women

Caregiving Roles

• Many incarcerated women are primary caregivers with a significant portion (63,900 in 1991 to 147,400 in 2007) being mothers in prison.
• The separation due to incarceration impacts both mothers and their children negatively.

Socioeconomic Status

• Incarcerated women often come from low socioeconomic backgrounds, illustrated by low employment (40%) and educational achievements (42% without a high school diploma).

Victimization and Mental Health

• High rates of victimization are reported among incarcerated women, with 25% to 71.8% experiencing childhood abuse.
• Mental health issues are prevalent, with 73.1% of women having a mental health problem in prison.

Substance Abuse

• Approximately 69.2% meet criteria for substance dependence or abuse, often associated with mental health problems.

Effective Programming Outcomes

• Treatment programs focusing on gender have been linked to reduced recidivism and improved life outcomes.
• Women participating in substance abuse programs saw a 45% decrease in reoffending compared to those who did not.

Women’s Programming Needs

• Incarcerated women have expressed the need for programs that include:
  • Job training and vocational programs to enhance employability upon release.
  • Mental health counseling to address emotional and psychological issues.
  • Substance abuse treatment programs focused on individual drug needs.
  • Family programs that foster connections with children.
• Leadership opportunities or program management roles for incarcerated women based on their skills and education levels.

Current Programming Challenges

• Several reported issues regarding the accessibility and effectiveness of available programs:
  • Programs are often incompatible with women’s schedules, overcrowded, or waitlisted.
  • Lack of information regarding program availability contributes to missed opportunities for participation.
  • Programs available do not adequately meet the identified gender-specific needs of incarcerated women.

Conclusion

• The provision of gender-responsive correctional programming is essential to address unique needs related to mental health, education, and family ties for incarcerated women.
• Addressing logistical barriers (like communication and program availability) could enhance participation and efficacy of these programs, ultimately aiding reentry and reducing recidivism.