Exploring the Use of Restrictive Housing in the U.S. Issues, Challenges, and Future Directions

• NCJ Number: 250523
• Date Published: November 2016
• Length: 2 pages
• Agencies: NIJ
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis; Issue Overview

Annotation

This article summarizes the contents of a book ("Restrictive Housing in the U.S."), produced by the U.S. Justice Department's National Institute of Justice (NIJ), that represents "the most comprehensive review to date of emerging issues and concerns surrounding restrictive housing" in U.S. prisons and jails.

Abstract

Restrictive housing, commonly referred to as administrative segregation or solitary confinement, is widely used in U.S. prisons and jails; however, the long-term effects and effectiveness of this practice are relatively unknown. "Restrictive Housing in the U.S.: Issues, Challenges, and Future Directions" is a comprehensive examination of this issue. It explores topics that include the roles that gangs, violence, and mental health play in the management of individuals in restrictive housing. As a whole, the chapters are a precursor to further research and program development, as they can assist with the coordination of research and evaluation efforts sponsored by NIJ and partnering agencies. Toward this end, the volume proposes a research agenda for the corrections research community. Each chapter was designed to address critical issues for corrections in general and for restrictive housing specifically. Access to an online pdf is provided for each chapter of the volume. Chapter titles are listed.