Masculinities, Fatherhood, and Desistance From Crime

Abstract

Being male constitutes a risk factor for incarceration. However, research suggests gender may have an indirect effect on men’s criminal behaviors. This author presents the theory that men’s endorsement of masculinity ideologies in the context of parenting affects their level of investment in the fathering role and has an indirect impact on their involvement with criminal justice systems through its relation to fatherhood. To test this theory, the author evaluated the link between endorsement of masculinity ideologies, fatherhood, and incarceration using secondary survey data. The findings showed male inmates’ investment in fathering was associated with their incarceration rate. They also highlighted the moderating influence of fathers’ age and fathers’ relationship with mothers. Implications for fathering programs behind bars are discussed.