Strain During Reentry: A Test of General Strain Theory Using a Sample of Adult Former Prisoners
Abstract
The majority of reentry studies focus on identifying different dimensions of reentry needs among released prisoners. Less explored is the mechanism by which unfulfilled reentry needs cause reentry failure. Applying the general strain theoretical perspective, this study aims to use an emotional and psychological prism to explain why released prisoners are likely to experience reentry failure when their reentry needs are not met. Findings demonstrate that the strains from financial difficulty and family neglect are positively associated with post-release criminal propensity, and depression noticeably mediated the effects of strains. Implications for correctional policymaking and future research are discussed.
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Biographies
Lin Liu, PhD, is an assistant professor in the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Florida International University. Her research interests revolve sentencing, criminal justice actors’ decision-making, former prisoners’ reentry, and the location-sensitivity of law enforcement. Recent publications appear in Crime & Delinquency, Justice Quarterly, Women & Criminal Justice, The Prison Journal, Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, Social Science Research, Marquette Law Review, Contemporary Justice Review, International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, and Sociological Inquiry.
Christy A. Visher, PhD, is professor of sociology and criminal justice at the University of Delaware, and director of the Center for Drug and Health Studies. She designed and implemented Returning Home: Understanding the Challenges of Prisoner Reentry.
Daniel J. O’Connell, PhD, is a senior scientist at the Center for Drug and Health Studies and an assistant professor in the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice at the University of Delaware. His research focuses on drug use and desistance from crime.
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Article first published online: July 3, 2021
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