By Kristin G. Cloyes
ABSTRACT: This article discusses the Colorado study on psychosocial effects of administrative segregation (AS) in relation to biomedical ethics and the obligations of clinicians and researchers working in prisons to promote autonomy, nonmalificense, beneficence, and justice. Applying this ethical framework, the article seeks to contextualize the Colorado study in relation to larger questions about AS and correctional health practice, and to expand discussion about AS effects to include the larger community of health care providers who understand bioethical principles as these inform public health, human rights, and best practices. Specifically, framing discussion of AS practices within biomedical ethics highlights how empirics and evidence require interpretation within a clinically relevant ethical framework to be truly meaningful and relevant for health-related practice and research.
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