Which of the following statements about imprisonment rates in the United States is true?

• A. The United States has one of the highest imprisonment rates in the world.
• B. Imprisonment rates in the United States are lower than most European countries.
• C. The majority of prisoners in the United States are incarcerated for violent crimes.
• D. Imprisonment rates in the United States have steadily decreased since the 1980s.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of imprisonment rates by considering global comparisons. Research data on imprisonment rates worldwide to see where the United States stands relative to other countries.
2. Step 2: Examine imprisonment rates in European countries specifically, to verify if the U.S. rates are higher or lower than most European nations.
3. Step 3: Investigate the types of crimes for which prisoners in the United States are incarcerated, distinguishing between violent crimes and other categories such as drug offenses or property crimes.
4. Step 4: Look at historical trends in U.S. imprisonment rates since the 1980s to determine whether they have increased, decreased, or remained stable over time.
5. Step 5: Based on the evidence gathered from these comparisons and trends, identify which statement accurately reflects the reality of imprisonment rates in the United States.