Honors College Theses

Publication Date

2025

Major

Criminal Justice and Criminology (B.S.)

Release Option

Open Access

Faculty Mentor

Laurie Gould

Abstract

Prison labor has long been a central component of the U.S. correctional system, evolving from early penitentiary models to contemporary labor practices that remain legally sanctioned under the Thirteenth Amendment. This study examines the historical development, key legislation, and modern realities of prison labor, emphasizing its economic, ethical, and rehabilitative implications. Using survey data from a nationally representative sample, the study assesses public attitudes toward mandatory prison work, fair wages for incarcerated individuals, and financial obligations such as medical copays and communication fees. Findings reveal that while the public generally supports prison labor, opinions diverge on compensation and economic burdens placed on incarcerated individuals. Demographic factors, including age, income, and political ideology, significantly shape these attitudes. The study highlights the tension between punitive economic policies and rehabilitation, underscoring the need for policy reforms that ensure fair wages, financial equity, and meaningful employment opportunities for incarcerated workers.

Copyright

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