Prison Privileges: What They Are and Why They Matter
If you’ve ever wondered why some inmates get extra time on the library floor or can make phone calls, you’re looking at prison privileges. In plain terms, a privilege is a special permission or benefit that an incarcerated person can enjoy beyond the basic necessities of food and shelter. These perks are meant to encourage good behavior, help inmates stay connected to life outside, and prepare them for re‑entry.
Most prisons have a set of standard privileges that apply to everyone, and then they have extra perks that depend on behavior, security level, or specific program participation. Understanding how these work can help families know what to expect and can also shed light on the bigger policy debates around fairness and rehabilitation.
Common Prison Privileges
Here are the most frequently offered privileges across U.S. and South African correctional facilities:
- Visitation rights – Inmates can see family and friends on a scheduled basis. Visits are usually brief but can be extended for good conduct.
- Phone calls – Most prisons allow a certain number of prepaid or monitored calls each month. Some waive fees for close relatives.
- Work programs – Jobs inside the facility, like kitchen duty or laundry, often come with higher wages, extra recreation time, and skill training.
- Education and training – GED classes, vocational courses, and sometimes college credits are offered. Successful completion can lead to reduced sentences in some jurisdictions.
- Recreation – Access to the gym, outdoor yard, or sports courts is a regular perk. Some prisons have organized teams that travel to other facilities for games.
- Commissary or canteen – Inmates can buy snacks, toiletries, and other personal items with earned money. Limits are set to prevent hoarding.
- Religious services – Chaplains and worship groups provide a space for prayer, counseling, and community support.
Eligibility often hinges on a behavior score or “good time” credit system. Miss a rule, and you could lose phone privileges or be moved to a higher‑security wing.
The Debate Around Privileges
Critics argue that giving inmates extra comforts is a waste of taxpayer money and unfair to victims’ families. They point out that some prisons offer luxury items like TVs or private rooms, creating a perception of “too soft.” On the other hand, supporters say privileges are tools for rehabilitation. When inmates earn trust, they’re more likely to follow rules and less likely to return to crime once released.
Recent reforms in several African countries have tried to balance these views. For example, South Africa’s correctional services introduced a tiered work‑program model that ties higher wages to vocational certifications. The goal is to give inmates real job skills while still keeping public safety a priority.
Another hot topic is the digital age. Some facilities now allow limited internet access for education, but this raises security concerns. Policy makers are testing monitored email systems that let inmates correspond with legal counsel and approved family members without opening the door to unrestricted web surfing.
When you’re a family member, the best way to navigate privileges is to stay in contact with the prison’s case manager. They can explain what your loved one can access, how to request additional programs, and what steps are needed to restore lost privileges.
Overall, prison privileges are more than just extra comforts. They’re incentives that shape behavior, provide learning opportunities, and help keep the correctional system focused on rehabilitation rather than just punishment.
Whether you’re a researcher, a policy advocate, or just curious about the inside of a jail, knowing the basics of prison privileges gives you a clearer picture of how modern corrections aim to balance safety, fairness, and the chance for a fresh start.
