Date of Award
2003
Publication Type
Master Thesis
Degree Name
M.A.
Department
Social Work
Keywords
Sociology, Criminology and Penology.
Supervisor
Drakich, J.
Rights
info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to explore the identity of life-sentenced inmates ('lifers') after they are released from prison and the impact of identity on reintegration. This research is based on the literature that argues that inmates develop a convict identity while in prison. Few studies, however, follow these convicts after they are released; thus, little is known about the fate of the convict identity. Based on role exit theory and role transition literature, it was expected that lifers would be required to shed their identity as lifers and assume a straight identity for successful reintegration. Seven lifers were interviewed about their identities. The main findings of this research reveal that a unique lifer identity exists in prison, survives the release date, and that identity plays a role in reintegration. The findings of this research suggest that identity needs to be addressed in correctional programming and policies. Identity post-release is a contested terrain in which lifers struggle between acquiring a straight identity and shedding their lifer identity. The continued connection to a lifer identity poses problems for acquiring a straight identity and successful reintegration---for example, locating and maintaining employment, obtaining housing once fully paroled, acquiring relationships with age appropriate and non-criminal individuals, and re-establishing familial and romantic relationships. This study contributes to both role transition literature and reintegration literature. In particular, the experience of lifers identifies weaknesses in Ebaugh's (1988) role exit theory and extends our understanding of identity post-release and the role it plays in reintegration.Dept. of Sociology and Anthropology. Paper copy at Leddy Library: Theses & Major Papers - Basement, West Bldg. / Call Number: Thesis2003 .B75. Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 42-02, page: 0479. Adviser: Janice Drakich. Thesis (M.A.)--University of Windsor (Canada), 2003.
Recommended Citation
Brooke, Catherine Lynn., "Walking the contested terrain: An exploration of the lifer identity post-release and its role in reintegration." (2003). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 4546.
https://scholar.uwindsor.ca/etd/4546