Date of Conferral
2023
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Public Policy and Administration
Advisor
Donald Mcllelan
Abstract
This research explored the relationship between reentry programs and recidivism in the state of Texas. One program in particular, Bridges To Life (BTL), has had an impact on recidivism in the state, and this research analyzed how the overall organization of BTL correlated to recidivism. Recidivism is the repeated or habitual relapse into crime. The purpose of this quantitative research study was to determine whether there was a direct correlation between the reduction of recidivism and the effectiveness of reentry programs through BTL in the state of Texas. The research question for this study explored the correlation between BTL and the recidivism rate in Texas. The primary theoretical framework used for this research was general strain theory (GST). A quantitative approach was chosen because data allowed for the analysis of the research question. According to GST, strains or stressors enhance the chance of unpleasant emotions, such as anger and irritation. These emotions put pressure on authorities to take remedial action, and crime is one possible reaction. Secondary data were collected from BTL and Texas Department of Corrections and Justice. The results of this study showed that there was a direct correlation between the effectiveness of reentry programs through BTL in the state of Texas and the reduction of recidivism. The implications for positive social change as it relates to this research may allow those who influence policy and law to have more accountable information to make decisions that positively affect citizens and the criminal justice system.
Recommended Citation
Steen, Steven, "The Recidivism Rate in Correlation to the Effectiveness of the Bridges To Life Reentry Program in Texas" (2023). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 14525.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/14525
