Psychiatric morbidity in prisoners and solitary cellular confinement, II: special ('strip') cells

Abstract

Placement of prisoners in 'strip' cells has been criticized as inappropriate for those with psychotic symptoms and at risk of suicide and self-harm. A national survey confirmed that prisoners who reported having been placed in special cells had extensive histories of previous psychiatric treatment, parasuicide and diagnoses of depression and schizophrenia. They were more likely to have cluster A and C Axis II personality disorders and criminal histories of arson and sexual offending. Current policy for mentally disordered prisoners who pose risks to themselves and others reflects the lack of more appropriate facilities for disturbed mentally disordered individuals in prison and psychiatric hospitals, and the failure of 'diversion' to NHS psychiatric inpatient facilities. In future, all prisoners placed in 'strip' cell conditions should receive specialist psychiatric assessment.

Keywords:

• Mentally Disordered Prisoners
• Prisoner Vulnerability
• Strip Cells
• Solitary Confinement