Due to exponential increases in the scale of women’s incarceration during recent decades, the traditionally neglected lived realities of female prisoners can no longer be summarily dismissed by those working within the prison context or those beyond the prison walls. This course will chronicle the gendered legacy of imprisonment in the United States from a feminist perspective, tracing the historical purposes and practices of incarcerating women. The needs of both women serving time and those who have obtained their release will be examined through writings by and interviews with women who have experienced prison life, as well as through consultation of empirical studies. Moreover, the ways in which these needs are addressed by correctional programming and policy will be reviewed. The course will conclude with consideration of correctional strategies, including alternatives to incarceration, which may better serve female offenders.
Class meeting: Tuesday and Thursday, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
****THIS CLASS MEETS SECOND 8 WEEKS ONLY****
Instructor: Christine Edge, criminal justice department
