Exploring the Challenges of Reentry Among Female Former Offenders

AbstractThe incarceration rate of female in the United States is growing faster than the rate of male ex-offenders. This purpose of this generic qualitative study was to understand female ex-offenders’ perceptions of reentry programs. The ecological system theory was used to explore how family support, federal and state financial support, and the economic conditions of the neighborhood ex-offenders were returning to influenced their return to society. Data were collected via semistructured interviews with female ex-offenders who had completed a reentry program and had not recidivated for 1 year. The use of Yin’s 5-step process for data analysis provided the following structured approach: (a) compile the data, (b) dissemble the data, (c) reassemble the data, (d) interpret the meaning of the data, and (e) conclude the data. Data were coded to develop 8 common themes: family support, support of probation and parole officer, employment, reentry programs, faith, determination, accountability, and education. The results of this study can lead to positive social change by providing human service workers with information about female ex-offenders and what is needed to assist them with returning to society. When human service workers and providers understand the challenges faced by female exoffenders they will be able to provide programs that meet the needs of the population