College
Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Date of Last Revision
2026-04-28 12:31:14
Major
Criminology and Criminal Justice
Honors Course
Senior Honors Project 001- Socio496-001
Number of Credits
3
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2026
Abstract
Over the past several decades, the number of people incarcerated in the United States has increased substantially, placing a significant strain on correctional systems. This project examines long-term trends in incarceration to better understand how population growth may relate to concerns about overcrowding. Specifically, it asks: How has the total incarcerated population in the United States changed from 1925 to 2022? Which type of correctional system (state prisons, federal prisons, or local jails) has experienced the most growth? And to what extent can changes in incarceration counts and facility distribution be used as indicators of overcrowding?
Using historical data and descriptive trend analysis, this study compares population patterns across correctional systems over time. By focusing on differences in growth and distribution, the project provides insight into how correctional populations have evolved and where potential resource strain may be most evident. This research contributes to broader discussions about mass incarceration, system capacity, and the challenges of managing large correctional populations in the United States.
Research Sponsor
Dr. Lia Wiley
First Reader
Dr. Insun Park
Second Reader
Carrie Tomko
Honors Faculty Advisor
Dr. Rebecca J Erickson
Proprietary and/or Confidential Information
No
Community Engaged Scholarship
No
Recommended Citation
Timmerman, Kaitlyn N., "Locked In: The High Price of Overcrowding and the Strain of America's Growing Prison System" (2026). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 2102.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/2102
Included in
Political Science Commons, Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration Commons, Sociology Commons