Reducing Recidivism: The Mediating Role of Mental Health Sessions in Strain and Reoffending

• In Event: General Strain Theory and the Role of Negative Emotion

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of in-prison mental health sessions in reducing recidivism among formerly incarcerated individuals. Specifically, we examine whether participation in mental health sessions alleviates emotional strain, which in turn contributes to lower rates of reoffending. Using data from 276 adult felony offenders with substance use histories—drawn from the Criminal Justice Drug Abuse Treatment Studies (CJ-DATS)—we employ Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to test the proposed mediation model. Findings indicate that participation in mental health sessions significantly reduces recidivism by addressing emotional problems. These results highlight the importance of integrating mental health services into both correctional and reentry programming. We suggest that expanding access to structured, evidence-based mental health interventions—both during incarceration and after release—can enhance public safety, reduce correctional system costs, and support more successful reintegration.

Authors

• Jacqueline Emmerich, University of Florida

• Alice J. Kim, University of Florida

• Myunghee You, University of Florida