Table of Contents:**

**

Chapter 1

: Introduction**
1.1 Background and Context
1.2 Problem Statement
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1.4 Scope and Significance
1.5 Research Methodology
1.6 Structure of the Thesis

**

Chapter 2

: Understanding Mass Incarceration**
2.1 Historical Context and Trends
2.2 Causes and Drivers of Mass Incarceration
2.3 Demographic Profiles of Incarcerated Populations
2.4 Economic Costs of Mass Incarceration
2.5 Social and Psychological Effects
2.6 Racial Disparities in Incarceration Rates
2.7 Conclusion and Summary

**

Chapter 3

: Criminal Justice Policies and Practices**
3.1 War on Drugs and Tough-on-Crime Policies
3.2 Mandatory Minimum Sentences
3.3 Three Strikes Laws
3.4 Privatization of Prisons
3.5 Bail Systems and Pretrial Detention
3.6 Impact of Policing Strategies
3.7 Conclusion and Summary

**

Chapter 4

: Rehabilitation and Reentry Programs**
4.1 Challenges of Reentry into Society
4.2 Employment and Housing Barriers
4.3 Education and Skills Development
4.4 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment
4.5 Community-Based Alternatives to Incarceration
4.6 Restorative Justice Practices
4.7 Conclusion and Summary

**

Chapter 5

: Policy Recommendations and Future Directions**
5.1 Sentencing Reform and Decriminalization
5.2 Investing in Rehabilitation and Reentry Services
5.3 Addressing Systemic Racism in Criminal Justice
5.4 Community Policing and Restorative Justice Models
5.5 Advocacy and Activism for Criminal Justice Reform
5.6 International Perspectives on Incarceration
5.7 Conclusion and Summary

*