Date of Conferral

6-26-2024

Date of Award

June 2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Dr. Jana Price-Sharps

Abstract

To date, no study has examined whether the Veterans Justice Outreach (VJO) program influences recidivism once a justice-involved veteran (JIV) completes the program. Nor has a study examined the diagnoses and comorbidities between a JIV’s propensity for recidivism following separation from the VJO. One of the VJO program’s goals has been to end JIVs' contact with the criminal justice system. This study utilized a generic qualitative design that aimed to explore JIVs who received treatment from the VJO and whether there was an effect on their risk of recidivism. Additional elements for exploration included posttraumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain disorder, and mental health diagnosis, and how this phenomenon affects the risk of recidivism. Thematic information was derived from participants’ accounts based on the semi-structured interview. All data were collected on SurveyMonkey. Once all five interviews were concluded, responses were analyzed together utilizing a thematic analysis approach. The results of this dissertation can contribute to positive social change by providing additional information to judges, lawyers, social workers, psychologists, and other legal, medical, and mental health professionals on justice involved veteran’s recidivism. The forensic psychology and veteran community could benefit from this study. While some veterans found the program helpful, it is essential to remember that treatment is ongoing. Treatment may not end after the program, making it essential to repeat this study as a large-scale longitudinal study in the future.

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