On ‘Psychology Behind the Headlines,’ hosts Patricia Wu, Jessica Reyes, and guest therapist Ryan Heapy discusses a new AP investigation revealing the dangerous and exploitative conditions of prison labor in the United States.
Modern Day Slavery
Heapy argues that prison labor, as it currently exists, is a form of modern-day slavery, with the 13th Amendment providing a loophole for exploitation.
Corporate Profiteering
Major companies profit immensely from the labor of incarcerated individuals, who are paid little to nothing for their work.
A Glimmer of Hope
While acknowledging the exploitative nature of prison labor, Heapy points out that some individuals find a sense of purpose and pride in their work while incarcerated, suggesting a potential avenue for reform.