Does something need to be done to Change the US prison system?

I’m currently taking a class on criminology, and everything I have learned has led me to think more about some ways the prison system in America could and should be reformed. In class, we have discussed incarceration and rehabilitation in other countries, and I think many of these tactics, if applied in America, could result in more successful returning citizens.

Many prisons continue to operate above their designed capacities, leading to issues such as increased violence, inadequate access to healthcare, and difficulties in providing rehabilitation programs. Prisons often struggle to provide adequate healthcare services, leading to concerns about the well-being of inmates. Mental health services, in particular, are frequently under-resourced, contributing to a cycle of untreated mental health issues.

Investing in vocational training, education, and mental health services within prisons can empower inmates to reintegrate successfully into society upon release, reducing the likelihood of reoffending.

Diverting resources from the prison system to community-based initiatives can address the root causes of crime. Investing in programs that tackle issues such as poverty, lack of education, and unemployment can contribute to crime prevention, emphasizing a proactive approach over punitive measures.

Whereas some issues are seemingly simple to solve, the United States has one of the highest incarceration rates globally. Addressing the factors contributing to mass incarceration, such as mandatory minimum sentences and three-strikes laws, remains a significant challenge.

While some may argue that a punitive approach serves as a deterrent, evidence suggests that a focus on rehabilitation is more effective in reducing recidivism rates. The societal benefits of successfully reintegrating individuals into their communities far outweigh the short-term satisfaction of punitive measures. Moreover, prison reform is not just a moral imperative but an economic one, as reducing incarceration rates can alleviate the burden on taxpayers and free up resources for more impactful initiatives.