Date of Conferral
2023
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Psychology
Advisor
John Astin
Abstract
Motivation is an important factor in the overall success, achievement potential, and capabilities of students, especially adult learners. For individuals who are currently in the criminal justice system, motivator is a key factor in degree obtainment, research shows. However, there is limited research on adult learners who have previously been involved in the U.S. criminal justice system and the motivational factors that led to their academic reengagement. The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of those motivational factors. The theoretical framework that underpinned this study was the transformative learning theory, which centers on how learners make meaning of their experiences. This study was qualitative in nature with a thematic data analysis approach. Purposeful sampling was used to recruit eight students for semi-structured interviews. Findings indicated the presence of intrinsic and extrinsic motivators, such as a desire for self-betterment and overall care for others, that led to educational reintegration. Findings also indicated the consistent presence of negative factors in participants’ lives that led to incarceration. This research may lead to positive social change by providing policy makers and other educational stakeholders with insight into the factors that can be cultivated to prevent criminal re-offense and help decrease the overall recidivism rate.
Recommended Citation
Mohammed, Saudia Krystal, "Adult Learning and Motivation of Students Previously Involved in the U.S. Criminal Justice System" (2023). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 14348.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/14348
