In-depth Notes on "Reentry Barriers and Correctional Programming Needs of Women"

Abstract

• Study examines reentry barriers and correctional program needs for women after incarceration.
• Uses qualitative methods, specifically in-depth interviews with 26 women in a halfway house.
• Aims to inform correctional policy and programming to address unique challenges faced by formerly incarcerated women.

Key Concepts

• Reentry Process

  • The transition from incarceration back into society.
  • Unique challenges faced by women compared to men are often overlooked in correctional programming.

• Correctional Programming Needs

  • Importance of gender-responsive programming in prisons.
  • Need for tailored approaches to meet educational, vocational, and health needs of female ex-offenders.

Characteristics and Needs of Women Returning to Society

• Educational and Employment Barriers

  • Many women are undereducated and lack job skills.
  • Stigma of incarceration makes job searching difficult (Pavis, 2002).
  • Job readiness and literacy rates have declined since 1990 (Petersilia, 2003).

• Vocational Training Participation

  • Only 29% received vocational training upon release in 1997, a decrease from 1991 (Petersilia, 2003).
  • Need for effective job placements and training in correctional programs.

• Literacy and Educational Issues

  • 19% of state prisoners are completely illiterate, higher than general population (
    Harlow, 2003).
  • Reduction observed in educational programs post-1994 due to elimination of Pell grants for inmates (Petersilia, 2003).

Health Issues

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health
  • High rates of substance abuse; 40% of state inmates report needing treatment (Mumola & Karberg, 2006).
  • Mental health issues prevalent, particularly among women, leading to challenges in reintegration.

Reentry Barriers

• Housing Challenges

  • Difficulty accessing public housing (e.g., “One Strike” policy for drug offenders) limits options for reentry (Petersilia, 2003).
  • Many women have limited social support; family can help with employment, but many struggle to find stable housing after release.

• Family Relationships

  • Strong family ties can support successful reintegration.
  • Strength of familial support correlated with lower likelihood of recidivism (Nelson et al., 1999).

Research Methodology

• Qualitative Approach
  • In-depth interviews and participant journaling.
  • Focused on understanding women's personal experiences during reintegration at Wilson House.

Findings

• Employment Difficulties

  • Women reported felony convictions hinder job searches; many feared stigma would prevent employers from hiring them.
  • Transition to job searching hindered by changes in application processes.

• Adjustment to New Environments

  • Some women experienced fear and anxiety when returning to unfamiliar urban settings.
  • Daily life adjustments, including learning public transport and cooking, posed additional challenges.

• Concerns About Clothing and Appearance

  • Many faced inadequate clothing for job interviews; programs exist to help (e.g., Dress for Success).

Recommendations for Correctional Programming

• Implement Gender-Responsive Programming

  • Address educational, vocational, and health needs specific to women.
  • Increase funding for aftercare programs that focus on successful reentry.

• Expand Vocational Training Opportunities

  • Provide access to broader vocational and educational programs tailored for women.

• Support Systems and Mentorship

  • Establish peer support groups for ex-offenders based on shared experiences.
  • Foster environments that reduce stigma associated with incarceration.