incarceration

Incarceration is the act of confining individuals by a government authority in a prison or other secure facility as punishment after conviction, or in some cases as pretrial detention. It is distinguished from non-custodial sentences such as probation and from civil confinement. Incarceration systems typically involve separation from the general population, structured routines, and oversight by corrections staff.

Purposes of incarceration commonly cited include punishment, deterrence, incapacitation to prevent further crime, and rehabilitation through programs. The length and type of confinement are determined by a criminal sentence or by pretrial detention orders, which may be used for risk assessment, flight prevention, or safety considerations.

Facilities vary by jurisdiction. Prisons typically house people serving long sentences; jails or detention centers hold those awaiting trial or serving short terms. Some systems also use secure homes or residential facilities for certain offenders. Release may occur at the end of a sentence, or earlier through parole, early release programs, or transitional supervision.

Global patterns show wide variation. The United States has a notably high incarceration rate relative to other countries, while many European and Asian systems emphasize alternatives to confinement, such as community-based supervision. Incarceration is associated with significant costs and social impacts, including overrepresentation of marginalized groups and mental health challenges, as well as concerns about recidivism and the effectiveness of certain programs.

Policy debates focus on sentencing reform, reducing reliance on prison for non-violent offenses, improving prison conditions, and expanding rehabilitation and reentry supports to reduce reoffending.