Solitary confinement, or segregation, is a form of punishment used in the criminal justice system as a way of controlling an inmate’s behavior, increasing security, or preventing a prison disturbance. It is the isolation of an inmate from the prison’s general population, which can involve placing an individual in a separate cell, in a heavily secured area, or in a room with limited human contact. The type of confinement and duration vary greatly depending on the specific prison system and the inmate in question.
The idea of solitary confinement is disturbing and is thought to be a form of psychological torture against a prisoner, especially when it is used as a long-term punishment. The United Nations has issued multiple statements condemning the practice, and the European Court of Human Rights has stated that extended periods of solitary confinement beyond 15 days can constitute cruel and inhumane treatment.
Modern Practices of Solitary Confinement
Today, solitary confinement is still used as a form of disciplinary action in prisons, but its use has been drastically reduced. In the early 2010s, the National Institute of Corrections and other prison reform advocates within the United States began implementing wide-ranging reforms to the solitary confinement system. These measures have led to a notable decrease in definitive terms for solitary confinement—some states no longer have any facilities or programs that meet the definition. Moreover, some states have stopped using the practice altogether.
Rather than using lengthy or indefinite forms of solitary confinement, prisons are looking into alternative methods of discipline and rehabilitation for inmates. These include trauma-informed approaches, which are characterized by an understanding of the impact of traumatic experiences on a person’s life. Other efforts are being made to create more humane forms of solitary confinement, such as by providing inmates with access to counselors, recreation, and other forms of support.
The Ongoing Debate
The use of solitary confinement is highly controversial and has triggered sharp debate in recent years. Supporters of the practice argue that it can be an effective tool for managing prisoners and controlling prison conditions, while opponents contend that the practice can exact a detrimental physical and mental toll on inmates. Ultimately, the decision of whether to use solitary confinement remains in the hands of prison officials, and the debate over its usefulness will likely continue for years to come.