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😈criminology review

Increased Incarceration

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Increased incarceration refers to the growing number of individuals being imprisoned within a given society, often as a response to crime rates and public safety concerns. This phenomenon is connected to various factors, including changes in laws, law enforcement practices, and societal attitudes toward crime and punishment, particularly in relation to property crimes such as burglary and theft.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The U.S. prison population has significantly increased since the 1980s, largely due to tougher drug laws and mandatory minimum sentencing policies.
  2. Increased incarceration rates often result from a 'get tough on crime' approach, which may lead to longer sentences for property crimes such as burglary and larceny.
  3. Studies indicate that higher incarceration rates do not necessarily correlate with lower crime rates, as many areas continue to experience crime despite increased imprisonment.
  4. The financial costs associated with increased incarceration can strain state budgets, prompting debates over criminal justice reform and alternatives to imprisonment.
  5. Communities with high rates of incarceration often face social and economic challenges, including the disruption of family structures and reduced employment opportunities.

Review Questions

  • How does increased incarceration relate to changes in laws and public perception regarding property crime?
    • Increased incarceration is often linked to legislative changes that impose harsher penalties for property crimes. As society becomes more concerned about crime rates, lawmakers may implement tougher laws that result in longer sentences for offenders. This shift reflects a broader public perception that prioritizes punitive measures over rehabilitation, ultimately contributing to the growing prison population.
  • Evaluate the implications of increased incarceration on recidivism rates among individuals convicted of property crimes.
    • Increased incarceration can lead to higher recidivism rates as individuals may struggle to reintegrate into society after serving time. Many inmates lack access to education and job training while incarcerated, making it difficult for them to find stable employment upon release. This cycle of imprisonment can perpetuate criminal behavior, particularly among those convicted of property crimes who may resort back to illegal activities as a means of survival.
  • Analyze the impact of increased incarceration on marginalized communities and its relationship with systemic inequalities.
    • Increased incarceration disproportionately affects marginalized communities, exacerbating existing systemic inequalities related to race, class, and socioeconomic status. As more individuals from these communities are imprisoned, families face disruptions that can lead to poverty and decreased access to resources. The cycle of increased incarceration reinforces social inequalities, contributing to an environment where crime remains prevalent and continues the struggle for equitable opportunities in society.