Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to develop a clearer understanding of the factors contributing to prerelease preparedness and offender's perceived likelihood to succeed. The uniqueness of this research is that offenders will be given an opportunity to express their opinions, beliefs, and feelings about release preparedness and community reintegration. Theoretical framework. Criminology theories provided a framework and contextual viewpoint for the research. The research design and survey protocol were based on the Theory of Reasoned Action, Labeling Theory, Strain Theory, and Differential Association Theory. From the four theories, the researcher developed the Theoretically Based Influences and Treatment Mediators of Post-Release Success model. Methodology. A cross-sectional, triangulated, multistaged design was used to explore, describe, and explain offenders' perceptions of community reintegration and postrelease success. Self-reported quantitative data were collected from 172 inmate participants. A stratified sample was used to gather qualitative data from 24 inmate participants through personal interviews. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were generated using SPSS. Major findings. The findings suggested that inmates perceive prison programs as useful, with significant differences between males and females. Release type presented no statistical differences in program participation or perceived postrelease success. Program participation was determined to be a predictor of perceived postrelease success. Overall, inmate participants felt that with support, people who wanted to change would not return to prison. Conclusion and recommendations. The research indicates offenders who receive transitional and support services are less likely to return to criminal activity. It is recommended that the federal government mandate and provide nontraditional approaches to incarceration and reducing recidivism. Additionally, the correction and parole systems should be restructured to incorporate inmate reentry centers, providing both correctional supervision and wraparound services to offenders.