Affiliation:
1. University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles California USA
2. University of Michigan School of Public Health Ann Arbor Michigan USA
3. Mailman School of Public Health Columbia University New York New York USA
Abstract
AbstractThis study examined the experiences returning citizens (RCs) have in participating in different reentry programs and how these experiences may lead to improved well‐being and quality of life (QOL). We conducted 14 semi‐structured interviews with RCs participating in employment‐oriented reentry programs. The interviews focused on participants’ reentry programming experience and areas affecting their well‐being (e.g., housing, education, financial stability). QOL was enhanced for RCs when they were able to access stable housing, develop supportive relationships, have a job that permitted them the resources needed to live independently, and increase their perceptions of self‐efficacy and social capital. While reentry programs maintain a focus on employment for RCs, housing, healthy relationships, and opportunities for increasing self‐efficacy and social capital are tied to well‐being and QOL among RCs. Reentry programs have the potential to influence a variety of factors at multiple levels that shape well‐being and QOL, and in turn employment and recidivism, among RCs.