Enhancing Reentry and Desistance: Evidence-Based Practices in Identity Transformation

• In Event: Improving Reentry Programs

Abstract

A grounded theory will be briefly outlined and logical application made to suggest how holistic prison treatment programs and multidisciplinary reentry programs will reinforce and support continuing pro-social outcomes. It is proposed that religion as one treatment program provides a control through social bonds that develop accountability and desire for respectability and responsibility within the individual. While it is often alleged that religion seems to fail upon reentry, it is proposed that this is not due to the failure of religion and spirituality but rather due to failure to systematically provide the transforming individual with continuing support and social controls upon reentry (O’Connor 2004a, 2004b; Maruna et. al. 2006; O’Connor and Duncan 2008; O’Connor and Bogue 2010; Worthington et al, 2010; Norcross and Wampold, 2010; Rigsby 2012). When social bonds break down upon reentry strain returns them to old associations and eventually crime. The goal (need), therefore, is to create an evidence based multidisciplinary program to increase the likelihood of desistance and reduce the likelihood of recidivism.

Author

• Malcolm L. Rigsby, Henderson State University