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Prison Buildup and Disorder

NCJ Number
213071
Journal
Punishment & Society: The International Journal of Penology Volume: 8 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2006 Pages: 87-115
Author(s)
Burt Useem; Anne M. Piehl
Date Published
January 2006
Length
29 pages
Annotation
This study explored the effects of prison buildup on prison order and management.
Abstract
Data indicated that while there might be many negative outcomes associated with the prison buildup in the United States over the past 40 years, greater prison disorder was not one of them. In fact, research shows that prison riots have decreased, smaller numbers of inmates are held in segregation and protective custody, and prison escapes are less frequent since the buildup. Indicators tracked over time show that prisons have become safer and more stable due to changes and improvements in correctional management. Further investigation into the reason for the increase in prison order revealed that neither demographic variables nor the development of supermax prisons were responsible for increasing prison order. Historical accounts of prison disorder and official attempts to regain control are reviewed across a variety of States, including Rhode Island, New York, and New Mexico. The case study data highlights the increasing rationalization and professionalization of the corrections industry. Figures, tables, notes, references