The Psychological Effects of Administrative Segregation

Abstract

This article is the author's response to the article by Ivan Zinger, Cherami Wichmann and D.A. Andrews entitled "Psychological Effects of 60 days in Administrative Segregation, The Segregation" (2001) 43 Canadian Journal of Criminology and Criminal Justice 47-83.

The author points out solitary confinement's effective exacerbation of a prisoner's feelings of social isolation, cognition problems, poor conflict resolution skills, and a low frustration tolerance, Further, the critical issue of the prisoner's experience of the justice or injustice of his segregation is also considered. Time in solitary confinement generates negative feelings within a prisoner which will impede successful reintegration into the community in terms of complying with parole conditions and leaving behind the values and attitudes of an outlaw.

Keywords: Corrections, Punishment, Psychology, Prisoners, Correctional psychology, Prison discipline, solitary confinement, Imprisonment