Abstract
The article explores correlates of criminal recidivism in women. The relatively limited amount of female-specific recidivism research suggests the presence of gender-specific differences between men and women in variables related to the patterns of reoffense. The present study combines the relatively lean body of female-specific empirical findings with related theoretical and anecdotal information, and, using a sample of 60 imprisoned women, assesses the relationship of 26 variables to women's rates of recidivism. Analysis of the data determined that five of the variables (age, arrest(s) while under legal supervision, offense type, age of first imprisonment, and looking forward to release from prison) were significantly correlated with recidivism. A sixth variable, quality of healthcare in prison, approached statistical significance. Suggestions for improvements in present treatment and rehabilitation models are made.
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