How should housing decisions be informed by PREA?

• A. Housing decisions should be based solely on age.
• B. Housing decisions should be random and schedule-based.
• C. Housing and unit assignment should consider risk factors and protective measures to minimize opportunities for abuse.
• D. Housing decisions are not related to PREA.

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is that housing decisions must be safety-driven and based on assessing risk to minimize opportunities for abuse. In practice, this means assigning housing and units through a careful, individualized risk assessment that weighs factors affecting vulnerability and the likelihood of abuse. Protective measures—such as appropriate supervision, sight lines, placement away from higher-risk areas, and considerations for vulnerable populations—should be woven into where someone is housed. This approach aligns with PREA’s aim to create environments that reduce abuse opportunities and enhance accountability and safety.

Relying solely on age ignores safety considerations and can overlook other risk factors. Making housing decisions at random or by a fixed schedule undermines the goal of minimizing abuse opportunities. And stating that housing decisions aren’t related to PREA is incorrect, since PREA standards directly govern how housing should be planned to protect inmates from abuse.