Inmates are categorized for safety based on which of the following?

Inmates are categorized for safety primarily based on their age because age can significantly impact an inmate's behavior, vulnerability, and the potential risks they pose to themselves and others within the correctional environment. Younger inmates may have different behavioral tendencies, levels of impulsivity, and social interactions compared to older inmates. This categorization helps determine appropriate housing, programming, and supervision needs to ensure the safety and well-being of the inmate population as well as the staff.

While factors like employment history, education level, and medical history may be relevant for rehabilitation programs or general inmate classification, they do not directly inform safety considerations in the same way age does. Age is a critical demographic factor that affects how inmates interact with each other and the institution, making it a more pertinent criterion for categorization focused on safety.