Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced a reevaluation of priorities within various societal structures, including correctional facilities. The research article titled "Is compassion the flip side of punitiveness? Incorporating COVID-19 crisis in experimental vignettes to examine support for visitation and vaccination in prison" by Hickert et al. (2022) explores public support for compassionate policies in prisons during the pandemic. This blog will discuss how practitioners can utilize these findings to enhance their skills and advocate for more compassionate approaches in correctional settings.
Understanding Public Opinion
The study highlights that public opinion plays a significant role in shaping correctional policies. Despite a general tendency towards punitive attitudes, there is an emerging support for compassionate policies, especially those that prioritize health and safety. Practitioners can leverage this shift by advocating for policies that align with public sentiments, emphasizing the humanitarian and public health benefits of compassionate approaches.
Key Findings and Their Implications
- Exclusionary Symbolic Aims: The study found that the public tends to prioritize non-prisoner groups for health interventions, such as vaccination and PPE distribution. Practitioners should focus on educating the public about the interconnectedness of public health and the health of incarcerated individuals.
- Inclusionary Symbolic Aims: Although the study found limited support for policies explicitly aimed at aiding vulnerable populations within prisons, there is potential to frame these policies as promoting universal moral values. Practitioners can emphasize the ethical responsibility to care for all individuals, regardless of their incarceration status.
- Instrumental Concerns: Cost remains a significant factor influencing public support. Practitioners should advocate for cost-effective solutions that demonstrate the long-term benefits of compassionate policies, such as reduced recidivism and improved public health outcomes.
Strategies for Practitioners
Practitioners can improve their skills by incorporating the following strategies:
- Engage in Public Education: Use data and narratives to inform the public about the benefits of compassionate policies. Highlight success stories and evidence-based outcomes to garner support.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Work with policymakers to develop and implement policies that reflect the findings of the study. Emphasize the importance of compassionate approaches in improving health outcomes and reducing costs.
- Collaborate with Stakeholders: Build partnerships with health organizations, advocacy groups, and community leaders to create a unified front in promoting compassionate policies.
Conclusion
The research by Hickert et al. (2022) provides valuable insights into public attitudes towards compassionate policies in correctional facilities. By understanding and leveraging these findings, practitioners can advocate for more humane and effective approaches to managing the health and well-being of incarcerated individuals. To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Is compassion the flip side of punitiveness? Incorporating COVID-19 crisis in experimental vignettes to examine support for visitation and vaccination in prison.
