Date of Award

2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Social Sciences

First Advisor

Vesperi, Maria

Area of Concentration

Social Justice, Health, and Equity

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to healthcare in Southwest Florida jails. The ongoing public health crisis has underscored the importance of examining these constructions in a cautious yet expeditious manner. While a considerable amount of research seeks to understand COVID-19 within prisons, there is limited information that contextualizes the novel virus within jails. This thesis aims to augment existing literature by taking a closer look at public health and disease prevention in jails. This project draws on data accumulated from nine ethnographic interviews dated from December of 2021 through April of 2022. In addition, secondary research was used to conceptualize a supporting framework and supplement first-hand findings. When examining an event as sizeable as a global pandemic, qualitative research can shed light on lived experiences. The application of ethnographic strategies to obtain qualitative data is a well-established and effective approach for gaining insight on human research. Specifically, semi-structured interviews can help to illustrate the complex dynamic that exists within these institutions and extends outside their walls. The information collected regarding COVID-19 management within the criminal justice system was used to analyze health related matters within Southwest Florida jails.

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