The Meaning of Correctional Crowding: Steps Toward an Index of Severity

Abstract

Correctional crowding remains an ill-defined and poorly measured concept, particularly at the institutional level. Its usefulness for research and management is limited because measures do not facilitate comparisons over time or across facilities. To address this problem, a focus group was used to identify variables for an index of the severity of jail crowding. Group members described a comprehensive model of jail crowding in which severity is a function of population factors, facilities, and management practices. The participants also drew on a theoretical approach to understanding institutions that has received little attention in the study of prison or jail crowding.