The revolving door of reintegration: Understanding the experiences and challenges of previously incarcerated people in Ontario

The transition from incarceration to the community (i.e., reintegration) is often characterized by uncertainty, unease, and instability. While there is a strong understanding reintegrative barriers like a lack of safe and stable housing, employment, and social support, reintegration is often characterized as a series of distinct challenges that determine its success. This overlooks how previously incarcerated people’s interactions with services and supports, or lack thereof, are woven into how they understand and navigate reintegration. Using interviews and secondary documentation, this study aims to (1) identify previously incarcerated people’s needs during reintegration, and the barriers they face in fulfilling these needs; (2) understand the role of reintegrative services and supports, or lack thereof, in shaping their experiences post-release; and (3) explore reintegration as a relational process. Doing so will produce evidence-based research that can advise programs/services in the community and/or correctional facilities and contribute to policy and public education on reintegration.

Faculty Supervisor:

Luca Berardi

Student:

Partner:

John Howard Society of Ontario

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Other services (except public administration)

University:

McMaster University

Program: