Religion, psychiatric symptoms, and gender role conflict among incarcerated Black men.

Abstract

Extant literature is mixed on the role of religiosity as a protective factor for mental health concerns and the effectiveness of faith-based prison programs on reducing recidivism. Religiosity and psychiatric symptoms are associated with gender role conflict (GRC), yet little is known about these relationships among Black incarcerated men. Undergirded by GRC theory, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between religiosity, 30-day psychiatric symptoms, and three measures of GRC: emotional restrictiveness, workfamily conflict, and affectionate behavior toward men. In a sample of 206 Black men nearing community reentry, our results indicated strong religious beliefs were associated with less emotional restrictiveness. Religious influence and psychiatric symptoms were positively associated with perceived work-family conflict. Further, strong religious beliefs moderated the association between psychiatric symptoms and work-family conflict. Implications for faith-based prison support programs as mechanisms for reducing recidivism among Black men are discussed. Public Significance StatementThe present study highlights the influence of religiosity on incarcerated Black men's 30-day psychiatric symptoms and gender role conflict, specifically work-family conflict. Faith-based organizations can provide counseling and support to men upon community reentry and should encourage Black men to seek mental health counseling for their psychiatric symptoms.