Dissertation/Thesis Abstract

Prison reentry from a psychological perspective: A study of the interfacing ecological factors that impact prison reentry outcomes
by Hagedorn, Neva E., Psy.D., Union Institute and University, 2014, 108; 3642763
Abstract (Summary)

The research question posed within this study is "What are the primary ecological factors that impact successful reentry of ex-offenders from incarceration to civil society?". This question is answered through a thorough study of the literature that investigates the complex relationship between the individual ex-offender and their interfacing ecological system(s). Information gleaned from secondary research will be analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. Thematic analysis is a research approach that provides a framework for identifying relevant resources and outcome information, comparing and contrasting these sources of information, and reporting on themes discovered within this extant literature. For the purpose of this study, thematic analysis was used to describe and organize the data collected and provided a framework to interpret the multifarious factors influencing prison reentry outcomes. Against the current trends of deficit-based and fragmented explanations for the growing trends in poor prison-reentry outcomes, this study introduces and promotes alternate explanations that offer a holistic approach which includes both the ex-offender and ecological system factors as relevant influences to be considered when addressing the social problem of prison reentry. Future recommendations emphasizing the vital role that psychologists play in developing policies and practices that improve prison reentry outcomes are offered, including efficacious approaches that are relevant to each level of the espoused ecological system.

Indexing (document details)
Advisor: Ossege, Jennifer M.
Commitee: Scott, Jennifer, Sears, Richard
School: Union Institute and University
Department: Psychology Progam: Clinical Psychology
School Location: United States -- Ohio
Subjects: Clinical psychology, Criminology
Keywords: Ecological system, Prison reentry, Social constructionist theory
Publication Number: 3642763
ISBN: 9781321298772