The Transformative Effects of Memoir Writing on Incarcerated Women: A Mixed Method Analysis

• In Event: Impact of Incarceration on Inmates and Correctional Officers

Abstract

The Transformative Effects of Memoir Writing on Incarcerated Women: A Mixed Method Analysis

The objective of this study is to evaluate how women in a specialized DWI facility for non-violent drug and alcohol crimes shift their attitudes toward self and society through a mandatory guided memoir writing program. A three-hour once per week Herstory writing workshop is required for female clients in Yaphank Correctional Facility in Yaphank, New York. Approximately 10-13 women are in the facility at a time for about 60-90 days; approximately 60 women pass through the facility annually. Women will complete pre-test questions before entering into the Herstory Program and a posttest of similar questions upon release, along with an exit interview. The tests consist of the following validated psychological instruments: Ryff Scales on Psychological Well-Being; The Heartland Forgiveness Scale (HFS); 12-Item Grit Scale; Basic Empathy Scale in Adults (BES-A); Fear of Negative Evolution (FNE); and Accepting the Past/Reminiscing About the Past (ACPAST/REM). Preliminary findings will be discussed including: descriptive statistics, changes in scale scores, qualitative analysis of exit interviews, and threats to validity.

Author

• Barbara Morrell, Saint Joseph's College - Suffolk Campus