Frontline Season 32 Episode 9
Frontline
Season 32

Ep 9. Solitary Nation

  • TV-14
  • April 22, 2014
  • 53 min
  • 8.1  (65)

Frontline season 32 episode 9, titled "Solitary Nation," focuses on the use of solitary confinement in America's prisons and its effects on the inmates held in isolation. The episode explores the controversial practice of segregating prisoners from the general population for 23 hours a day, with limited social interaction, exercise, and natural light.

Through interviews with former prisoners, correctional officers, and experts in the field, "Solitary Nation" sheds light on the psychological and physical toll of long-term solitary confinement. Viewers will meet prisoners who have spent years in isolation, some of whom have developed severe mental illness, self-harm tendencies, and suicidal thoughts.

The documentary raises questions about the ethical implications of using solitary confinement as a form of punishment and rehabilitation in the American criminal justice system. It discusses the lack of evidence that solitary confinement reduces violence in prisons or contributes to the successful reintegration of prisoners back into society.

In addition, the episode examines the racial disparities in the use of solitary confinement, with black inmates often being isolated for longer durations than their white counterparts. The documentary also questions the constitutionality of prolonged solitary confinement and examines a landmark case that could end the practice in California.

Overall, "Solitary Nation" is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged look at the use of solitary confinement in America's prisons. It highlights the significant impact that this harsh practice has on the mental and physical health of prisoners and raises important questions about the effectiveness and morality of using solitary confinement in the criminal justice system.

Description
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Frontline, Season 32 Episode 9, is available to watch free on PBS and stream on PBS. You can also stream, download Frontline on demand at online.
  • First Aired
    April 22, 2014
  • Content Rating
    TV-14
  • Runtime
    53 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    8.1  (65)