The Impact of Solitary Confinement on Prisoner Mental Health and Rehabilitation

Author: Amanda Thirkapersaud

Field of Study: Social Sciences

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Alexandra Moore

Easel: 64

Timeslot: Morning

Abstract: Solitary confinement, isolation of convicts in small rooms for hours each day, creates serious ethical and psychological problems. Prolonged seclusion causes and worsens illnesses such as anxiety, despair, and cognitive deterioration, causing lasting damage. Most concerns raised have been met with the reasoning that solitary confinement does not cause severe damage to qualify as an 8th Amendment violation. This project aims to debunk this theory and prove how the criteria for what is concerned torture needs to be broadened to be inclusive to the other forms of torture someone may be put through. The methodology used for this paper will combine in person observations at Broome County Jail and literature analysis of the language of the Eighth Amendment and other laws. This project emphasizes the growing desire for humane treatment and the recognition of solitary confinement's negative influence on prisoner well-being and rehabilitation.