Decarceration: Definition, Pros, and Cons

Published June 10, 2023

In the United States, which has one of the highest incarceration rates in the world, decarceration has gained significant attention as a means to address the issues associated with mass incarceration. As societies seek to address issues related to overcrowded prisons, high costs, and the effectiveness of incarceration, the idea to decarcerate the number of individuals in correctional facilities has emerged as a potential solution.

Decarceration: Definition

Decarceration refers to the deliberate and systematic reduction of the prison population through various means. It involves adopting alternative strategies that focus on community-based corrections, diversion programs, and rehabilitation efforts. Rather than relying solely on incarceration as a primary response to crime, decarceration seeks to address the underlying causes and provide individuals with the necessary support to reintegrate into society successfully.

Historical Background

Decarceration originates in the criminal justice reform movements that emerged during the 1970s and 1980s. These movements criticized the prevailing “tough-on-crime” policies that led to increasing incarceration rates. 

Over the years, concerns about prison overcrowding, racial disparities, and the impact of mass incarceration on communities have propelled the discussion surrounding decarceration. Further, several factors have contributed to the rapid growth of the incarcerated population, including the War on Drugs, mandatory minimum sentencing laws, three-strikes policies, and the privatization of prisons. The consequences of mass incarceration have been devastating, with negative impacts on communities and individuals, particularly marginalized groups.

Decarceration: Pros and Cons

The primary objectives of decarceration are to alleviate prison overcrowding, focus on offender rehabilitation, achieve cost savings, and decrease recidivism rates. By pursuing these goals, decarceration aims to create a system that promotes positive change, reduces incarceration’s social and economic burden, and fosters safer communities.

Pros of Decarceration

Reduction in Overcrowding

One of the significant advantages of decarceration is the reduction of prison overcrowding. Overcrowded prisons often lead to increased violence, poor living conditions, and limited access to rehabilitative programs. By decreasing the incarcerated population, resources can be allocated more effectively, ensuring better living conditions and opportunities for prisoners.

Focus on Rehabilitation

Decarceration encourages a shift in focus from punishment to rehabilitation. It acknowledges that many offenders have underlying issues such as substance abuse, mental health disorders, or lack of education and employment opportunities. Moreover, individuals can receive the necessary support and interventions to address these issues and reduce the likelihood of reoffending.

Cost Savings

Reducing the incarcerated population through decarceration can lead to substantial cost savings. Prisons require significant financial resources to operate, including housing, healthcare, and staff expenses. Governments can redirect these funds to invest in community programs, education, and social services contributing to crime prevention and rehabilitation.

Decreased Recidivism

Decarceration aims to break the cycle of criminal behavior by addressing the root causes of offending. Providing individuals with rehabilitative programs, education, vocational training, and support networks can significantly reduce the likelihood of reoffending. Further, this benefits the individuals involved and the communities they return to, creating safer environments.

Cons of Decarceration

Public Safety Concerns

One of the main concerns associated with decarceration is the potential impact on public safety. Critics argue that reducing the prison population may increase crime rates, as offenders are released earlier or not incarcerated. Balancing the need for decarceration with ensuring public safety requires careful planning, risk assessment, and effective reintegration programs.