Exploring practitioner perspectives on the exit and reintegration of federally-incarcerated extremists

• In Event: Coping with Radicalization and Managing Exit and Reintegration

Abstract

This study explores the perspectives of practitioners on managing and supporting the reintegration of federally incarcerated extremists. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with (n=50) professionals involved in the reentry process, including parole officers, treatment specialists, case managers, and reentry navigators. These interviews collected information on (a) current approaches for managing the exit of federally incarcerated extremists, (b) challenges practitioners face when managing these cases, and (c) potential improvements to better equip professionals in the reintegration process with the tools and resources they need to provide proper support to this clientele. Emergent thematic analysis is used to identify qualitative themes that emerge from the data. Findings from the analysis reveal inconsistency in the approaches currently being used to manage and support extremist-involved individuals exiting from incarceration. However, participants largely agreed there is a need for more resources, guidance, and training to help bolster professionals’ capacity to effectively support incarcerated extremists in their reintegration process. These findings highlight the importance for researchers and practitioners to work together to advance policy solutions that are both pragmatic and evidence based.

Authors

• Noah Turner, University of Nebraska Omaha / NCITE

• Isaac Moelter, University of Nebraska Omaha / NCITE

• Erin M. Kearns, University of Nebraska Omaha / NCITE

• Sadaf Hashimi, University of Nebraska Omaha

• Zachary Hamilton, University of Nebraska Omaha