Challenges Incarcerated Women Face as They Return to Their Communities: Findings from Life History Interviews

Abstract

This article uses results of a qualitative research project to describe the challenges that incarcerated women face as they return to their communities from jail or prison. Following a descriptive profile of the population, the particular challenges are discussed, focusing on the gender and culturally specific needs that formerly incarcerated women from low-income communities face upon release from correctional facilities in this country. The article concludes with a discussion of the broader contexts that affect women's self-sufficiency, and the need for neighborhood development initiatives, public policy reform, and social changes.