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Experimental effects of a restrictive housing step-down program on violent and non-violent misconduct

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  • Tostlebe, Jennifer J.
  • Pyrooz, David C.
  • Labrecque, Ryan M.
  • Useem, Bert

Abstract

This study addresses two issues that challenge policy, practice, and research on restrictive housing in prisons. First, the overarching need to reduce the footprint of restrictive housing and improve conditions of confinement. Second, the longstanding need to generate credible evidence of the effects of restrictive housing by ruling out selection bias. The Oregon Department of Corrections developed and implemented a step-down program for prisoners in long-term segregation and this study offers experimental evidence of its effects on misconduct.

Suggested Citation

  • Tostlebe, Jennifer J. & Pyrooz, David C. & Labrecque, Ryan M. & Useem, Bert, 2025. "Experimental effects of a restrictive housing step-down program on violent and non-violent misconduct," Journal of Criminal Justice, Elsevier, vol. 99(C).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:jcjust:v:99:y:2025:i:c:s0047235225001151
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2025.102466
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    References listed on IDEAS

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