Breaking the Chains of Trauma: A Look at Incarcerated Women
The criminal justice system, as it is currently structured, often overlooks the particular needs of incarcerated women, perpetuating a cycle of victimization and imprisonment. Unlike their male counterparts, many women enter the system not driven by the pursuit of power or financial gain but as a result of survival-related crimes—offenses rooted in abuse, extreme poverty, and substance dependence. When dealing with female offenders, we should treat them differently than male offenders, because “It is crucial to recognize that men and women have different needs and experiences, meaning that treatments should be equitable, but not necessarily equal” (Rousseau, 2025). Women’s realities demands a fundamental shift in how we approach their rehabilitation, recognizing and addressing the different traumas that permeate their lives.
Trauma is not the exception; it is the norm. A significant number of these women have experienced physical, sexual, and emotional abuse throughout their lives, often beginning in childhood. Additionally, many are the primary caregivers for their children, which exacerbates their vulnerability and the consequences of their incarceration. This background of trauma profoundly impacts their mental health and well-being, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health challenges.
Stephanie Covington (2007) highlights how traditional correctional policies often fail to address the unique needs of women, reinforcing a system that punishes them for the very experiences that led to their incarceration in the first place. Instead, Covington advocates for relational and trauma-informed interventions that address victimization, caregiving roles, and mental health concerns. Gender-responsive programs provide an opportunity for comprehensive rehabilitation, improving reintegration and reducing recidivism.
But how does this translate into practice? First, it is crucial to build trust between incarcerated women and mental health professionals. This can be achieved through staff training on the prevalence and impact of trauma, as well as the implementation of peer support programs that foster a sense of community and mutual understanding.
Additionally, treatment programs must be specifically designed to address the unique needs of women who have experienced trauma. These programs should offer; individual and group therapy focused on trauma, substance abuse treatment, development of social and emotional skills, parenting support and family reunification assistance, and the promotion of physical and emotional safety, allowing women to process their traumatic experiences in a supportive environment.
Post-release programs are also essential. Mental health and addiction treatment, PTSD and co-occurring disorder therapy, as well as social skills development and emotional support, are critical components of effective rehabilitation efforts.
By prioritizing relational and trauma-informed interventions, the criminal justice system can begin to address the unique needs of incarcerated women, fostering healing and successful reintegration into society. Breaking the chains of trauma can pave the way toward a more just and equitable future for all incarcerated women, regardless of their past.
References:
- MET CJ 725 O1 Forensic Behavior Analysis. Spring 1, 2025, BU, Prof. Rousseau, D.
- Andrews, D. A., & Bonta, J. (2007). Risk-Need-Responsivity Model for Offender Assessment and Rehabilitation.
- Covington, S. S. (2007). The Relational Theory of Women’s Psychological Development: Implications for the Criminal Justice System. In R. Zaplin (Ed.), Female Offenders: Critical Perspectives and Effective Interventions (pp. 135-164). Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett.
- Orr, C. et al. (2009). America’s Problem-Solving Courts: The Criminal Costs of Treatment and the Case for Reform. National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
- Rousseau, D., PhD, LMHC, & Elizabeth Jackson, MPH. TIMBo Implementation in a Women’s Correctional Facility – MCI Framingham Pilot.
- Walls, S. The Need for Special Veteran Courts.