The Experiences of Women Reintegrating After Prison: An Explorative Qualitative Study on Women Released from Prisons and Jails in Canada

Abstract

Women are among the fastest growing prison populations in Canada, often with adverse backgrounds, complex life circumstances, and unique criminogenic needs. However, limited criminological and sociological inquiry focusses on the experiences of criminalized and formerly incarcerated women in Canada. Given associations between criminogenic needs and reintegration outcomes upon community re-entry, this study explores the experiences of formerly incarcerated women and staff involved in a novel reintegration program (Women Reintegrating After Prison: WRAP) designed specifically for criminalized women in Canadian settings. More specifically, this project considers two research questions: (1) what are the experiences of formerly incarcerated women reintegrating from prison or jail; and (2) does reintegrative programming and/or interventions designed for formerly incarcerated women impact experiences of re-entry? Through 12 qualitative interviews with staff and participants of the WRAP program, this work explores the experiences of incarceration for women, community release/reintegration, and the impacts of reintegrative programming. Findings suggest that rehabilitative needs are often unmet in Canadian federal and provincial custody, with system-related, economic and social needs for reintegration enduring following community re-entry. Insights from this project support the development of targeted programming to address gender-specific needs, such as individualized and holistic service, trauma-informed approaches, empowering choice, and criminogenic barrier alleviation for clients, while also revealing gaps in existing custodial practices, reintegrative supports, and social advocacy.