Abstract
The use of solitary confinement among U.S. prisons has been at the center of debate since the early 19th century. A method used for myriad reasons, some find its usage both acceptable and necessary for maintaining order among inmates, while others argue that such incarceration is nothing more than cruel and inhumane punishment. This project will examine the historical usage of solitary confinement among U.S. prisons and will look more closely at the psychological effects incurred as a result thereof. While it is unlikely that the need for correctional staff will diminish, it is necessary that future correctional staff in the U.S. are provided with a greater understanding of solitary confinement and its effects. Through this project, a lower division level community college-level curriculum, students will have available to them an introductory course on the use of solitary confinement among U.S. prisons. It is the intent of the project that students interested in a career associated with corrections will gain the knowledge and understanding of the usage and effects of solitary confinement, and that they will be better prepared to address current and future issues and concerns, as they arise within correctional institutions.