Applied Sociology and Prisoner Reentry a Primer for More Successful Reintegration

Abstract

Prisoner reentry has assumed increased attention recently as hundreds of thousands of former inmates return to their communities through mandatory release, parole, or placement on probation: Most of the large influx of offenders is due to the enormous financial commitment of incarceration exacerbated by the strain of diminishing state revenues and decades of punitive sentencing policy. This potential mass transfer of people from institutional settings requires a concerted effort from those involved in applied sociology. While psychology has established a strong foothold in the field of correctional rehabilitation, sociology has retreated since the early 1970s following the publication of Robert Martinson's research on rehabilitation programs in prisons. Sociology began as an applied science of society. More than ever before, sociological practice must embrace and re-engage communities in facilitating reentry and reducing recidivism among those released or under community supervision. This article offers direction to those prepared to take an active role in prisoner reentry by delineating the unique position of applied sociology to reclaim a place in community corrections.