Identification of perceptions of reincarcerated men concerning community reintegration life experiences in Missouri as measured by the Community Reentry Survey and prediction of group membership

Abstract

Recidivism is a serious problem in the United States as well as Missouri. According to the 2008 Missouri Probation and Parole Annual Report, 108,787 people were under supervision of Missouri Probation and Parole at some point in FY 2008. That same year in Missouri, 15,256 people violated the conditions of probation or parole and were incarcerated. The good news is, the rate is decreasing. However, the current recidivist trend data indicates approximately 24,500 will return to prison by 2011. The cost of incarceration is measured not only in dollars, but is also measured in absent parents, loss of productivity, and in loss of potential. Various programs are in place to rehabilitate offenders to give them the tools to successfully integrate into the community. This quantitative study examines the perceptions about life situations of reincarcerated men in a Missouri correctional institution. The literature review includes a brief history of the penal system. The methods used in this study included a survey tool, Community Reentry Survey, which was administered to incarcerated volunteers. Findings indicated the source of problems for ex-offenders as they tried to reintegrate in the community included substance abuse, ability to find employment, and old friends and acquaintances.