Date of Conferral

8-25-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Criminal Justice

Advisor

John Walker

Abstract

The problem this study explored is how the timing of when reentry services are provided to incarcerated individuals and the impact it will have on their reintegration process and recidivism rates. This qualitative study analyzed the timing of when reentry programs are provided to incarcerated individuals and the impact it has on reducing recidivism rates. This study’s flyer was posted on social media platforms and shared with reentry programs. A total of 20 interviews were conducted. All participants answered the requirement questions via email; for those who met the criteria, consent forms were then sent, and interviews were scheduled. Transcripts were reviewed line by line, three times, for patterns and reoccurring recurring themes. Key findings indicated that the non-technical skills are as crucial as technical skills and that reentry programs positively influence an individual’s successful reintegration into society. Returning citizens shared that society is not set up for them to do better after release, but reentry programs provide a foundation for picking up the pieces of life after incarceration. General strain theory addresses the needs of incarcerated individuals. Change theory addresses the needs of the criminal justice system. This study was not gender, age, race, state, or institution-specific. For future studies, it is recommended to repeat this study using any one of the previously listed categories. Positive social change from this study would be persuading correctional staff and policy makers on the positive outcomes of providing reentry services earlier in one’s sentence to help improve incarcerated individuals have a successful reintegration process.

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