Faith Behind Bars: A Systematic Review of Religion in Correctional Settings and Reentry

• In Event: Exploring Moral, Spiritual, and Relational Approaches to Prison Rehabilitation

Abstract

Religion has been linked to various positive outcomes, including well-being, social connection, and reduced substance abuse and crime. In correctional settings, religious programs and fellowship opportunities are often among the few structured activities available to incarcerated individuals. Despite a growing body of research in this area, no comprehensive assessment of the field exists. This study addresses that gap by systematically reviewing empirical journal articles on religion in correctional settings from 2004 to 2024. The analysis examines qualitative and quantitative studies, identifying key data sources, methods, theoretical perspectives, and publication trends. Findings highlight dominant theoretical frameworks, methodological strengths and limitations, and the role of religion in reentry and rehabilitation. By synthesizing two decades of scholarship, this review provides insight into how religion functions within correctional institutions and post-incarceration contexts. The results contribute to criminological theory while identifying critical directions for future research. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature on religion in correctional settings, shedding light on its impact and implications for policy, practice, and theory.

Authors

• Amy Adamczyk, City University of New York, John Jay College and The Graduate Center

• Bosco Villavicencio, City University of New York, John Jay College and The Graduate Center

• Tzu-Ying Lo, St. Johns University