Opportunity, Provision, and Best Practice (From Crime & Employment: Critical Issues in Crime Reduction for Corrections, P 169-176, 2004, Jessie L. Krienert and Mark S. Fleisher, eds. -- See NCJ-209355)

• NCJ Number: 209362
• Author(s): Daniel J. Flannery
• Date Published: 2004
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: AltaMira Press
• Publication Format: Book Chapter
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This paper reviews research findings on the features of communities and opportunities that will reduce the likelihood that an ex-inmate will reoffend and return to prison.

Abstract

It is important that the socioeconomic context into which the ex-inmate returns -- specifically family, neighborhood, and larger community -- exert positive cultural, economic, political, and religious influence on the ex-inmate. Rehabilitative features of this context include opportunities for success that reinforce self-esteem, opportunities for work and education, and the provision of opportunities to address specific problems that impede behaviors that contribute to success. Resources must include treatment for substance abuse, programs for educational advancement, and training for jobs that pay a living wage and involve positive social and stimulating activities. Ex-offenders need programs that will assist them in navigating the complex systems of applying for jobs, completing applications, and being interviewed by prospective employers. Of critical importance is the provision of support and guidance for how to deal with employer responses to the ex-offender's criminal record. For young ex-offenders, education opportunities are particularly important in qualifying them for a wide range of employment opportunities that provide good pay and satisfying tasks.