Professional Perspectives on the Debt Situation of Incarcerated Persons: A Mixed-Methods Study

Abstract This study examined the debt situation of prisoners in Germany, focusing on the relationship between incarceration and debt accumulation, the role of prisoner wages, and its subsequent effects on re-entry into society by incorporating quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews with practitioners in prison. The findings revealed that debts related to criminal justice proceedings are perceived as significant, and debt related to incarceration is seen as barrier for re-entry perspectives. The results indicate a positive effect of debt counseling, highlight inconsistencies in the perceived benefits of raising prisoner wages on debt management, and underscore the necessity for tailored debt counseling and wage reforms to enhance rehabilitation outcomes.