Worse than Second Class: Solitary Confinement of Women in United States (2014)

“Worse than Second Class: Solitary Confinement of Women in the United States” is the new report of ACLU which reveals the devastating effects of solitary confinement on women proving that long-lasting (at least 22 hours a day) is cruel, expensive and ineffective.

The Report displays negative impact of solitary confinement in mental and physical health of women prisoners, its use as a means of punishment for those reporting abuse or neglect by prison staff. In spite of diminished human contact, solitary brings to near-total lack of privacy allowing to follow the prisoners at all times via video and being supervised by male guards even during the most private moments, such as showering, using toilet. This creates risks of being physically or sexually abused by the staff, as abuses committed in isolation are easier to hide. Taking into account that most of the women prisoners are mothers, the Report examines effect on their children as well. In many states people in solitary are not allowed visits, while in others visits are conducted through a glass partition without opportunities of physical engagement. For the pregnant women solitary confinement often jeopardizes their access to prenatal care.

The Report contains important recommendations towards ensuring dignity and safety of the persons in prison. 

Citation: 'Worse than Second Class: Solitary Confinement of Women in United States', ACLU (2014)

HRDP summary