First Advisor

Kyle Ward

Second Advisor

William Woody

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Thesis

Date Created

5-10-2025

Department

College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Criminology and Criminal Justice, CRJ Student Work

Abstract

Criminal justice reform programs in the U.S. have grown and developed as studies have found that older methods of criminal punishment are ineffective in terms of reducing the likelihood of an inmate being reincarcerated after release, referred to as “recidivism.” With the growth of these reforms, ground-breaking systems have been integrated into prisons in the form of rehabilitation and reintegration programs which serve to reduce recidivism. However, with the development of numerous new unique and powerful programs, determining which rehabilitation and reintegration programs are most effective in reducing recidivism in felony offenders in the U.S. is critical. Past research suggests that different programs serve to reduce recidivism in a variety of ways. For example, while an arts-based program shows significant success with those who have a knack for being creative, work-based programming has shown to be more successful for those in need of funds to save for post-release. However, most of this prior research is done with majority quantitative data based on looking at how programs impact on the rates of recidivism in offenders after taking them and being released into the community. This current research study seeks to address this question with a mixed methods survey focused more on qualitative results, which were disseminated to halfway house clients in a medium-sized mid-western city. The research participants rated various rehabilitation and reintegration programs that they experienced while also providing short answers to open-ended questions regarding what they view as the biggest barriers to reintegration and recommendations for programs. This research study emphasizes the importance of individualized approaches in reintegration and rehabilitation programs for felony offenders, and the results can inform possible future adjustments to offered programs within this community.

Abstract Format

html

Disciplines

Criminal Law | Criminal Procedure

Keywords

Felony Offender; Reentry Program; Rehabilitation; Halfway House

Language

English

Extent

64 pages

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author.

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