Strain During Reentry: A Test of General Strain Theory Using a Sample of Adult Former Prisoners

The majority of reentry studies focus on identifying different dimensions of reentry needs among released prisoners. Less explored is the mechanism by which unfulfilled reentry needs cause reentry failure. Applying the general strain theoretical perspective, this study aims to use an emotional and p...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Liu, Lin (Author)
Contributors: Visher, Christy A. ; O’Connell, Daniel J.
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
Published: 2021
In: The prison journal
Year: 2021, Volume: 101, Issue: 4, Pages: 420-442
Online Access: Volltext (lizenzpflichtig)
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Keywords:
post-release criminal propensity
strain during reentry
General Strain Theory
Description
Summary:The majority of reentry studies focus on identifying different dimensions of reentry needs among released prisoners. Less explored is the mechanism by which unfulfilled reentry needs cause reentry failure. Applying the general strain theoretical perspective, this study aims to use an emotional and psychological prism to explain why released prisoners are likely to experience reentry failure when their reentry needs are not met. Findings demonstrate that the strains from financial difficulty and family neglect are positively associated with post-release criminal propensity, and depression noticeably mediated the effects of strains. Implications for correctional policymaking and future research are discussed.
ISSN:1552-7522
DOI:10.1177/00328855211029652