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Language
English (en)
Date of Award
5-1-2000
Author's Department
International and Area Studies
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts (A.B.)
Restricted/Unrestricted
Restricted
Abstract
This thesis discusses the extra-judicial punishment of sexual abuse of female inmates in the United States and how it has occurred in violation of international law. A theoretical analysis of the abuse of incarcerated women is also posited under the context of a patriarchal society. The first chapter explains how the system of gender in prison parallels the hierarchy in society at large in order to understand the disparity between human rights theory and practice in the United States. The presence of male guards in female facilities creates a propensity for a misuse of power in a variety of ways. In chapter 2, some common inmates' histories, including previous sexual or physical abuse, provide a basis for evaluating the actions of male guards. Chapter 3 examines who is entering the prison system and for what reasons to better understand the effects of the abuse and how it occurs in the gendered system of our society. Chapter 4 outlines relevant international norn1s to measure how the US has deviated from the standards. Case studies, in chapter 5, provide specific examples of how international norn1s are not observed and the resulting abuse. Finally, as a global model of democracy, the US deviance has implications for other countries, other human rights legislation, and for its reputation. Please note that this report does not seek to place blame on any one specific party for the abuse of women in prison, but rather evaluates the dynamics of society as a contributing factor. It is acknowledged that the job of a prison officer is difficult and demanding. This thesis in no way wishes to degrade the respectable guard who is also disappointed and outraged at the w1professionalism of some of his/her peers, but seeks to draw attention to the extra-judicial punishment of women in prison. The United States government has a responsibility to recognize its shortcomings in the protection of female inmates' human rights. In response, male guards should not oversee female inmates, because of the high probability of abuse and/or psychological effects on the inmate.
Mentor
Victor Le Vine
Additional Advisors
Rachel Roth, Don Conway-Long, Priscilla Stone
Recommended Citation
Muzzo, Jennifer R., "Women in Prison: Evaluating Abuse in Violation of International Law" (2000). Senior Honors Papers / Undergraduate Theses. 101.
https://repository.library.washu.edu/undergrad_etd/101