NCJ Number
241511
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 56 Issue: 6 Dated: September 2012 Pages: 897-916
Date Published
September 2012
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This study examined life conditions of ex-prisoners over a period of postrelease reintegration.
Abstract
Successful reintegration of ex-prisoners into the community is multifaceted. The life conditions of 36 adult Australian ex-prisoners (20 male and 16 female) were examined via a questionnaire administered at 1 to 4 weeks post release, and a subset of 19 of the original respondents were interviewed again at 3 to 4 months post release. Interviews focused on intrapersonal conditions (physical and psychological health and substance use), subsistence conditions (housing, employment, and finance), and support conditions (social support, support services/program participation, and criminal justice support). The majority of ex-prisoners self-reported chronic physical and mental health problems as well as a history of substance use and/or current substance use. Although the housing conditions of ex-prisoners were largely favorable and constant, the employment and financial conditions of this group were generally unfavorable. Level of social support was variable. Theoretical implications and practical applications of the present investigation for reintegration theory are discussed. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.