Examining Employment Dynamics: Post-Conviction Experiences and Changes

• In Event: Post-Conviction Pathways: Exploring Employment and Support Mechanisms and Experiences

Abstract

Much work highlights the import of employment for persons under community supervision, emphasizing it as a conduit to lesser recidivism and overall stability. Scholarship often equates employment status as a dichotomous experience, though the type, degree, and stability of employment are often more nuanced. Drawing upon qualitative interviews with persons with felony convictions, the current study investigates the experiences of post-conviction employment. While most individuals had gained access to some type of employment post conviction, the analyses include exploration of employment quality and type, as well as the overall commitment to and experiences within the workplace environment. These experiences were more varied and are considered in the evaluation of the mechanisms of employment that may promote overall stability and success.

Authors

• Breanne Pleggenkuhle, Southern Illinois University Carbondale

• Audrey Hickert, Southern Illinois University Carbondale

• Beth Huebner, University of Missouri - St. Louis

• Bailey L. Saldana, Southern Illinois University Carbondale