NCJ Number
230606
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 54 Issue: 3 Dated: June 2010 Pages: 346-360
Date Published
June 2010
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This study examines the role of emotional state in the reintegration of ex-prisoners. Participants were 101 adult prisoners (72 male, 29 female) who completed a questionnaire 1 month prior to their release and at 2 postrelease points focusing, first, on prison-related experiences and, second, on the quality of life conditions experienced following release.
Abstract
The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory were also completed at each interview. Results indicate that mean BDI-II scores were significantly higher at prerelease than postrelease, while mean anxiety scores were unchanged over the period under investigation. There are significant relationships between numerous reintegration variables and emotional state following release. At each postrelease point, lower depression and anxiety among participants were related to higher age and improved psychological health. Higher depression and anxiety were related to participation in a postrelease program. Theoretical implications for reintegration theory are discussed, together with practical applications. Tables and references (Published Abstract)