Date of Conferral

8-2-2025

Degree

Doctor of Human Services (D.H.S.)

School

Human Services

Advisor

Sarah Matthey

Abstract

Reintegration after incarceration has long been a subject of scholarly inquiry, particularly regarding barriers to employment, housing, and mental health services. However, limited research addresses the reintegration experiences of postrelease offenders in rural regions, where access to essential resources is often restricted. This qualitative single case study is an exploration of the challenges and service needs of formerly incarcerated individuals living in rural Mississippi. Using purposive and snowball sampling, six participants were selected based on residency in rural counties, a nonviolent criminal history, and at least one year of successful community reentry. The conceptual framework was guided by the assess, plan, identify, coordinate (APIC) model, and data were analyzed using Yin’s five-phase approach. Semistructured interviews revealed nine key themes: (a) strict legal obligations hinder reintegration, (b) employment difficulties undermine stability, (c) housing instability increases stress, (d) healthcare access is limited, (e) stigma causes isolation, (f) supportive relationships promote success, (g) reentry programs aid skill-building, (h) personal resilience empowers progress, and (i) transportation barriers restrict access to services. The findings align with the social determinants of health, highlighting how housing, employment, healthcare, transportation, and social support shape reintegration outcomes. This study underscores the need for community-based reintegration strategies tailored to rural contexts. Policy efforts should focus on improving infrastructure, reducing systemic inequities, and expanding access to essential services for marginalized populations. Addressing these social determinants is critical to promoting equity, reducing recidivism, and supporting long-term reentry success.

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