Pat Carlen Knihy

The book explores the rising incarceration rates of women in the UK and globally, highlighting the unique nature of women's crimes and their experiences within the criminal justice system. It examines the societal factors influencing women's criminality and the distinct challenges they face in prison compared to men, shedding light on the broader implications of these trends for social control and justice.

The collection features key essays that explore the intersection of criminal justice and societal inequalities. Carlen argues that in societies marked by exploitation, true criminal justice remains an illusion. Through a criminological lens, the essays aim to uncover the reasons behind this disparity and propose alternative visions for a more equitable system.

First published in 1983, Women's Imprisonment explores the meanings of women's imprisonment and, in particular, the wider meanings of the 'moment' of prison.