In this study, researchers examined unintended effects of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) in a women’s prison.
This article discusses unintended effects of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA). Research on the PREA has overwhelmingly focused on male correctional institutions, neglecting female ones. Sexual violence is also of concern within female prisons, and the need arises to understand whether PREA is achieving the goal of eradicating sexual misconduct in prisons housing women, or if the policy is having unintended effects. Based on results from surveys collected from women (N = 369) incarcerated in a Southeastern U.S. prison, both positive and negative aspects of the act were cited. In terms of the former, the legislation resulted in improvements to prison climate, yet for negatives, participants noted how PREA was being weaponized by staff and peers against other incarcerated women via false allegations. Policy implications are discussed. (Published Abstract Provided)
Downloads
Similar Publications
- Short-Term Health and Safety Outcomes Associated With Digital Hotline Use at Interpersonal Violence-Focused Agencies
- Job Placement for Offenders: A Promising Approach to Reducing Recidivism and Correctional Costs
- Testing Probation Outcomes in an Evidence-Based Practice Setting: Reduced Caseload Size and Intensive Supervision Effectiveness