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Changing the Ties that Bind

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Criminology & Public Policy

Published online on

Abstract

Research Summary By using a subsample of the Returning Home data set, we explored how family relationships change during reentry as a result of incarceration. Overall, we found that individuals who completed parenting classes, those with more frequent visits from family members, and Black and female respondents experienced positive changes in family relationships. On the other hand, single and divorced individuals, those with prior convictions and mental health issues, and individuals who reported barriers to family contact reported significant negative changes within the family relationship. Policy Implications The findings from this study suggest that reducing barriers to family contact—especially the cost of visitation and visitation procedures—may lead to positive changes within family relationships for formerly incarcerated individuals. Furthermore, developing programs to assist individuals with mental health issues to maintain family relationships may create avenues to help those individuals keep, or reestablish, family ties after release.