Prison classification systems
QUESTION
How well do classification systems address the needs of inmates and alleviate problems faced by the corrections system? What burdens do classification systems place on inmates and the corrections system?
In your initial post, address the following:
Share at least one example illustrating a positive outcome of classification for inmates and at least one example illustrating a positive outcome of classification for the corrections system.
Share at least one example illustrating the challenges that classification poses to inmates and at least one example illustrating the challenges that classification poses to the system.
Prison classification systems
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Prison classification systems aim to manage the risks associated with mingling those with hefty crimes with those with minors, minimizing riots and escapes, and providing programs that address the inmates’ needs. There are several classification systems that prisoners have to go through, and they are both external and internal systems. Inmates undergo a rigorous classification process upon reception to determine their placement. The results provide adequate treatment resources and information to adjust prisons and avoid overcrowding. However, different inmates have diverse needs like mental health issues and social and situational factors; hence a classification system that is objective and based on needs assessment and the ability to deliver individualized treatment to prisoners would be ideal.
A positive outcome of classification would be an inmate with no history of violence or has no prior convictions and does not pose future harm to the society and are thus vulnerable and protected from being preyed upon by other inmates with priors. For instance, placing young inmates together shields them from older inmates that might take advantage of them. A positive outcome for the corrections system would be reducing overall recidivism. An example would be in Singapore. The country employed the prison classification system and reduced the number of released inmates who got incarcerated again by almost half of the number compared to previous years.
A challenge to the inmate would be the potential to infringe on human rights due to the social discrimination against prisoners. The system has a potential for over-classification, which results in inmates getting separated from social life and thus hinders reintegration efforts after incarceration. A challenge to the system would be the enormous financial cost associated with running the prison and a considerable cost to address a failed attempt to solve the problems.
References
UNODC. (2020). Handbook on the classification of prisoners. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. https://www.unodc.org/documents/dohadeclaration/Prisons/HandBookPrisonerClassification/20-01921_Classification_of_Prisoners_Ebook.pdf