Residential Relocation and the Reentry Outcomes of Formerly Incarcerated Individuals

• In Event: Barriers to Housing & Relocation Post-Reentry

Abstract

This study explores the effects of different types of residential relocation on the reentry outcomes, including recidivism, of formerly incarcerated individuals. Although many parolees return to their communities of origin, some move to new communities for a variety of push and pull factors. It is essential to better understand the impact of different relocation decisions on formerly incarcerated populations in order to develop policies that may promote better social reintegration outcomes after release from prison. Drawing on the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth and controlling for relevant neighborhood and individual indicators, this study investigates whether residential relocation in itself may help to improve criminal career outcomes and minimize the influence of other risk factors (by altering social networks, changing employment and routine activities, or by creating new opportunities for change). We also assess whether the reasons underlying the decision to relocate are associated with reentry outcomes.

Authors

• Christopher Thomas, CUNY Graduate Center / John Jay College of Criminal Justice

• Lila Kazemian, John Jay College of Criminal Justice