Reentering women: The impact of social ties on long-term recidivism

Abstract

Criminological theories have long suggested that family relationships influence criminal behavior. Yet, little recidivism research focuses on in-prison social ties. Despite evidence that social ties are more important for women, most research has focused on men. Furthermore, little is known about the effect that in-prison contact has on post-release support and what role this plays in the social ties–recidivism relationship. This study seeks to build on existing research by examining the relationship between female in-prison contact, post-release support, and recidivism. Results suggest that in-prison family contact and post-release family support are protective whereas in-prison non-family contact is a risk factor.