Prison Meditation Movements and Mass Incarceration

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Over half of US inmates have substance use disorders.
• Meditation and contemplative practices are used for various disorders, including addiction.
• Volunteer-led meditation and yoga programs are increasingly offered in correctional facilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review experimental research on mindfulness meditation for substance use disorders.
• To examine the application of mindfulness in incarcerated settings.
• To propose program improvements for reducing recidivism.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of experimental studies on mindfulness for addiction.
• Analysis of mindfulness programs in jails and prisons.
• Examination of volunteer program models.

Main Results:

• Evidence supports mindfulness meditation as a treatment for drug and alcohol addiction.
• Mindfulness practices are being implemented in correctional settings.
• Volunteer programs highlight interdependency and community building.

Conclusions:

• Mindfulness meditation is a viable treatment for substance use disorders in inmates.
• To effectively reduce recidivism, correctional mindfulness programs should foster interdependency and build supportive communities.
• Integrating contemplative practices within a community framework is key for long-term success.