Perceptions of Experiences of Formerly Incarcerated Individuals on Community Reentry Programs to Reduce Recidivism

This study was conducted to identify the perceptions of experiences of formerly incarcerated individuals who have been actively involved in community-based reentry programming (CBRP). Utilizing a qualitative interview approach with previously incarcerated persons, the study’s focus was to identify the differences in literature, lived experiences, and the connection between CBRP and recidivism through the perceptions of formerly incarcerated persons who have completed CBRP. A key goal was to identify difficulties in the reentry process through the perception of lived experience and offer suggestions for improvements through the lens of actuarial justice. Using a qualitative, phenomenological approach, data was collected through individual interviews and analyzed using thematic coding to identify recurring patterns and themes. Manual transcription was used to organize and code this qualitative data. Findings show how formerly incarcerated individuals view reentry programming and its role in CBRP and recidivism. The results from 11 participants indicated that both internal and external factors contribute to recidivism based on the perspectives of individuals who have been incarcerated before. Participants suggested that refining individual treatment plans, organizational development, and providing comprehensive services for an additional time frame, post-incarceration, could lead to the necessary changes for ensuring success on an individual basis. These results can help enact positive social change by evaluating policies, procedures, and interventions required for individuals participating in CBRP in California and nationwide.