Relationship Between Correctional Support Programs and Incarceration Rates in a Southeast U.S. State

Author

Laverne Jane Knight, Walden University

Date of Conferral

2020

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Daniel Jones

Abstract

Released prisoners continue to relapse into criminal behavior resulting in high incarceration rates. The purpose of this quantitative correlational study was to examine the relationship between incarceration rates and program support types in a Southeast U.S. correctional institution. Maslow’s theory of human motivation provided the framework for the study. The research question addressed whether a correctional center’s programs (general education development and vocational certificates) predict its incarceration rates. Secondary data from the correctional center’s website were analyzed using multiple linear regression. Findings indicated that GED was not significantly related to incarceration rates, but vocational certificates showed a significant relationship to incarceration rates. Findings may be used to improve correctional programs and reduce their incarceration rates.

Recommended Citation

Knight, Laverne Jane, "Relationship Between Correctional Support Programs and Incarceration Rates in a Southeast U.S. State" (2020). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 9492.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/9492