Reformers of the pre-Civil War period thought it was possible to rehabilitate criminals through solitary confinement.

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Many reformers believed that criminals could be rehabilitated through solitary confinement, as it was thought that isolation would force them to reflect on their actions and repent. This led to the development of the penitentiary system, with the aim of creating a penitent or regretful offender. However, this approach was later criticized for its psychological effects and lack of social interaction, with some arguing that it actually led to greater mental illness and recidivism.

Reformers of the Pre-Civil War Period Thought It Was Possible