Promoting Restful Nights: The Role of Safety in Sleep Quality Among Incarcerated Youth

Abstract

Background Literature demonstrates that carceral settings prove detrimental to sleep among adult populations, yet aspects of juvenile prison that harm the sleep of youth remain understudied. We sought to understand whether and how safety impacts sleep in juvenile prisons in a Southeastern US state. We conducted an explanatory sequential mixed methods study. Survey data were collected from 78 youth in a male juvenile prison. Nineteen youth volunteered for follow-up qualitative interviews. About half of participants were White, and most were non-Latine and heterosexual. Results Findings illuminate the need for improved juvenile prison conditions and staff behavior, emphasizing the importance of promoting safer, more supportive environments. Indeed, the inextricable link between safety and environmental characteristics that contribute to feelings of safety (e.g., temperature, noise, lighting) were noted as essential to enhance sleep quality among incarcerated youth, and a vital component of their overall health and well-being. Nutrition and hunger were also regularly noted by participants. Conclusions Noteworthy advancements in physical and mental health among these youth are possible by targeting sleep and safety. By holistically supporting needs of incarcerated youth, their safety is more likely, fostering higher well-being and a more successful return to their communities.