RESEARCH
The Benefits of Horticultural Therapy for Prison Populations
Summary
The study’s design is presented as a synthesis or review of existing literature concerning the benefits of Horticultural Therapy (HT) within prison populations. The central purpose of this work is to highlight the potential of HT programs as a multifaceted solution to significant problems prevalent in the US prison system, specifically addressing the widespread lack of mental health treatment, the high costs associated with incarceration and therapy, and inadequate inmate nutrition due to limited access to fresh foods. The importance of this review stems from the fact that while HT has proven beneficial in other contexts, such as for war veterans and the elderly, its potential for rehabilitation and healing among incarcerated individuals has not been fully explored academically.
The methodology involves drawing upon findings from various studies that have implemented HT programs in prisons. The paper discusses different approaches to HT used in these studies, including those that draw analogies between plant life cycles and human experiences, encourage open dialogue in gardening settings, or focus on teaching practical skills. The review integrates evidence from these studies to demonstrate how HT can positively impact inmates’ mental health by reducing issues like depression, anxiety, and addiction vulnerability, while also increasing self-esteem and life satisfaction. Crucially, the paper also examines the evidence supporting HT’s cost-effectiveness through avenues like providing fresh food and, most significantly, reducing recidivism rates.
