Sexual misconduct in women’s prisons
- Artifact: Find a recent news article (from the past 5 years) that discusses an issue related to the incarceration of women. This could include topics such as:
Sexual misconduct in women’s prisons
Lack of educational or vocational programs
Healthcare for incarcerated women, particularly related to pregnancy or mental health
The challenges women face upon re-entry into society after release
- Think: After summarizing the article, critically analyze the issue
How does this issue highlight why women are often referred to as the “forgotten offenders” in the criminal justice system?
In what ways are incarcerated women’s experiences different from men’s in similar circumstances?
- Opinion: Do you think enough is being done to meet the unique needs of women in prison? Why or why not? What improvements would you suggest, based on your understanding of the article and the chapter material?
Sample Answer
Artifact: Incarcerated Women and Healthcare
News Article: “Lack of Adequate Healthcare for Incarcerated Women Raises Concerns” (The New York Times, 2021)
This article highlights the significant challenges faced by incarcerated women in accessing adequate healthcare, particularly in relation to reproductive health and mental health. The article cites studies that show incarcerated women are more likely to have chronic health conditions, such as HIV/AIDS and substance abuse, compared to men in prison. Additionally, many women in prison have experienced trauma, including sexual assault and domestic violence, which can exacerbate their health problems.