Week 2 Discussion Board Super-max prisons are used in virtually every state and the federal system. Based on what you learned this week, do
you think we should continue to use super-max facilities? Should we utilize them even more, about the same as we are now, or less? Should we consider privatizing some super-max prisons? Why or why not?
In your answers, be sure to use information related to 1) a super-max prison’s effect on both the inmate as well as others (e.g., the community and the inmate’s family); 2) the characteristics of the “typical” inmate; and 3) using the correctional system to do everything possible to help inmates change for the better.
Answer:
Based on what we have learned this week about super-max prisons, I feel that we should continue to use them.
Super-max prisons could probably be used a little less than they are now.
This would depend on how the super-max prisons are being used.
If the state and federal systems use the super-max prisons just to house the super violent inmates and those that they are afraid would attack someone, then the super-max prisons would be used less than they are now.
When they use super-max prisons to punish inmates because of them being a troublemaker or because they demanded their rights, it hurts not only the inmate but their families as well.
This can cause the family to not be able to see their loved ones in prison as often or at all for a while.
It can cause mental issues to occur with the inmate which can cause problems when the inmate goes back to a regular prison.
Super-max prisons should not be privatized.
If a super-max prison becomes a private prison the inmates may not be treated fairly and it could be abused
by putting inmates in a super-max prison that doesn't need to be there because of the money they would receive for each inmate in a private super-max prison.
