Gender Differences in Jail Populations: Factors to Consider in Reentry Strategies

Abstract

Jail populations have declined by 6.4% since 2009 as policy and practice shifts toward offender rehabilitation. However, the U.S. female jail population rose about 45% between 1996 and 2011, which suggests that a greater focus on gender-based needs in reentry strategies may further reduce recidivism. This study examined gender differences in social, medical and human needs in an urban jail population. Results revealed significantly greater problems for women than men. More women than men reported needs for chemical dependency and mental health services, and a greater willingness to receive treatment. Implications suggest that genderresponsive programs are essential for jailed women.

The relationship between exposure to adverse life events in childhood and adolescent years and subsequent adult psychopathology in 49,163 adult prisoners: A systematic review

“…As Kennedy and colleagues (2013; emphasise, mental health services in prisons are generally not designed to address the prevalent experiences of childhood victimisation. The findings in this review support a demand in the literature for the development of targeted and trauma-focused mental health and transition services for men and women (Drapalski, et al, 2009;Spjeldnes, et al, 2014). Several traumainformed, gender-responsive, evidence-based interventions are currently being evaluated within the prison context (e.g.…”

Prisoner Parenting: Parenting From a Federal Jail

“…Given that women’s needs tend to be more varied than those of males, and women often have fewer program opportunities, expanding jail-based programming for women makes sense (Clark, 2009; Lahm, 2000). It is clear that gender-responsive programming is needed (Spjeldnes et al, 2014) and jails provide the first stop for treatment, particularly trauma-sensitive treatment (Scott et. al., 2015).…”

Incarcerated for a Sex Offense: In-Prison Experiences and Concerns about Reentry

“…Finally, we have a very small sample of females who identify as being incarcerated for a sexual offense. Given that the reentry needs of individuals may vary by sex (Scroggins & Malley, 2010; Spjeldnes & Goodkind, 2009; Spjeldnes, Jung, & Yamatani, 2014), it is important to recognize the potential limitation of asking more generic questions about reentry. Females reentering society after incarceration may have different concerns and needs, and those who are reentering society following a conviction for a sexual offense may face additional barriers to similarly situated males.…”