Indicators of ‘Readiness’ in the Process of Reentry: What Are They and Do They Matter?

• In Event: Roundtable: Reentry

Abstract

Building on my previous work of defining ‘success’ in the process of reentry which I contend is socially constructed, I delve into what defines ‘readiness’ and how this correlates with my existing research on ‘success’ with regard to determining when an ex-offender should be released back into the community. Specifically, though these decisions are made by case workers in the correctional system according to a rubric of criteria, ultimately the determination of whether or not an ex-offender meets these criteria is based on the interpretation of the criteria by the case worker which warrants a more in-depth examination. Furthermore, I assess the structural components of the correctional system from a socially constructed thematic framework to argue whether or not these indicators of readiness are used effectively in the process of determining whether or not an ex-offender is ready to return to society. Lastly, I critique the existing reentry policies and delineate how ‘readiness’ could be considered to prevent recidivism.

Author

• Melanie B. Norwood, University of Illinois at Chicago