The United States has one of the highest incarceration rates in the world, and its prison environment is often criticized for being harsh and dehumanizing. This system contributes to poor health outcomes for inmates and a high rate of repeat criminal behavior after release.
In response, there is growing interest in adopting aspects of Scandinavian prison systems, which emphasize rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society. These systems focus on humane treatment, education, and fostering positive relationships between inmates and staff.
A unique study led by Norwegian and U.S. researchers is testing the feasibility of Scandinavian-style prison features within a Pennsylvania facility. This project, known as the Scandinavian Prison Project (SPP), initially launched in 2022 at the State Correctional Institution-Chester (SCI Chester).
The program is now expanding to three additional sites, which will likely include a maximum-security prison and a women’s facility. The study explores whether practices such as inmates preparing their own meals and exercising with officers can be successfully implemented in U.S. prisons.
Comparing Scandinavian-Inspired Prison Units with Traditional U.S. Correctional Facilities
The SPP follows a randomized controlled trial approach, where a specially designed prison unit is compared with the standard U.S. prison environment. Staff participation is voluntary, while inmates are assigned through a lottery system but can opt out. The SPP unit at SCI Chester accommodates 64 residents with a higher staff-to-inmate ratio than traditional U.S. prisons. This setup allows for more personalized supervision and interaction, potentially leading to better outcomes for both inmates and correctional officers.
Scandinavian-Inspired Prison Reforms Tested in U.S. to Improve Rehabilitation and Reduce RecidivismThe Little Scandinavia unit at SCI Chester features single-person cells, a fish tank, and modular furniture to create a more comfortable environment. The project also encourages informal interactions between staff and inmates, resembling the relationship models seen in Scandinavian prisons. While some limitations remain—such as the inability to allow inmates to wear their own clothes—the approach aims to foster mutual respect and communication, which are often lacking in traditional U.S. prison settings.
Evaluating Scandinavian Prison Reforms: Measuring Impact on Violence, Well-being, and Recidivism
Researchers are evaluating the effects of the SPP by measuring physical and mental health improvements, tracking incidents of violence, and assessing recidivism rates. While it is challenging to isolate the effects of specific interventions, early data suggests a reduction in violence and an improvement in the well-being of both inmates and staff. Other research initiatives, such as the Amend project in Washington state, are also testing Scandinavian-inspired prison reforms without randomized trials.
The early success of the SPP has prompted Pennsylvania to expand the project to other prison types, including facilities with higher-security classifications. However, researchers acknowledge that factors like post-release support, which is more robust in Norway, may influence long-term outcomes. Other states, including Washington, Oregon, and North Dakota, have also begun incorporating Scandinavian prison principles, with California even enlisting Danish architects to redesign San Quentin prison.
Despite promising results, fully implementing the Scandinavian prison model across the U.S. remains unlikely due to the sheer size of the incarcerated population and financial constraints. However, aspects such as improved staff-inmate relationships and rehabilitative practices may still be integrated into the current system. While not a cure-all for crime, projects like the SPP demonstrate that incarceration can be made more humane and effective, potentially leading to lasting changes in the U.S. prison system.
