Prisoner Classification In Prisons

Within the prisons we have what is known as prisoner classification; it is a method to classify inmates according to the level of security risk. The purpose of the inmate classification system is to reduce the escapes, suicides and internal fights of the inmates. There are two levels of inmates classification; objective and subjective. (James, 2017)

The objective classification process begins when the inmates are taken to the prisons on the first day. It is one of the most important tools of the correction system. At the time they enter in prison; the inmates are subjected to a series of exams; medical and mental health exams. A profile of each inmate is created that includes what crime he committed, his education, his criminal record, his abilities and his health record. Using this information, a profile is created for each inmate and with this information his classification is assigned and the prison that is most convenient for him is designated. (James, 2017) The objective classification system has the following advantages; standardizes the profile of each inmate so it contains the same information and at the same time improves the security, identification and location of each inmate. It uses methods and

instruments that have been validated, its classification is rational based on consistent methods and is able to monitor the processes efficiently. (Carlson & Garrett, 2015)
The subjective classification is based on classifying the inmates using the experience and judgment of the classification administrators.

They decide where and what type of supervision each inmate will be. The subjective classification is more economical, requires less staff to work it and takes less time. This classification could be considered discriminatory because it can depend on how you are considered by your race or gender. It depends on how the people who are carrying out the classification think about the inmate. It is based on the opinion of the one who classifies and not on the needs of the inmate. The subjective classification is inconsistent and it is impossible to prove that it was not an arbitrary decision; it does not reflect

validity.
Some courts have found that subjective classification fails to offer the inmate the constitutional protection he deserves. (Carlson & Garrett, 2015)
In my personal opinion the subjective classification is the least fair, depends on the opinion and personal criteria of the people who are making the classification. It does not use a method that its validity is measurable. It denies the prisoner a fair treatment that could be beneficial for him and his rehabilitation. In the other hand the objective classification is fairer to the inmate. It uses instruments and methods that are the same for all inmates. It is a proven and standardized system giving each inmate the same optionsIt is not a discriminatory system that is influenced by personal opinions.