Understanding Gender, Racial, and Ethnic Differences in the Relationship between Prison Visitation and Recidivism

• In Event: Policy Panel: Perspectives on Jail and Prison Visitation

Abstract

Prison visitation can create, mend, or maintain social ties that are critical for successful reentry. Research suggests that prison visitation reduces recidivism, but it is unclear whether this relationship is consistent across all inmates. Men and women, and prisoners from different racial and ethnic backgrounds, may have access to varying levels and types of support during imprisonment, and face unique disadvantages upon release. Accordingly, to advance research and inform correctional policy, this study seeks to: 1) examine the effects of visitation on recidivism; 2) examine whether the effects of visitation on recidivism are universal across genders and racial/ethnic groups; and 3) examine why these effects vary (or not) by gender and race/ethnicity. To carry out these objectives, we use administrative data on all prisoners released from the Arizona Department of Corrections (ADC) during FY2011 (N=14,586), along with detailed self-report data on the nature of prison visitation collected from a subsample of inmates incarcerated in ADC (N=230). We conclude with specific recommendations for improving prison visitation practices and families’ support capacities.

Authors

• Melinda Tasca, Sam Houston State University

• Jillian J. Turanovic, Florida State University

• Kevin A. Wright, Arizona State University