The effects of institutional discrimination on the successful reentry of ex-offenders

This study seeks to demonstrate the effect that institutional discrimination has on the successful reentry of ex-offenders into society. A statistical analysis of 157 survey respondents showed a positive correlation between institutional discrimination and recidivism within the first twelve months of conviction of a felony and/or release from a correctional facility. By examining the links between recidivism and employment, housing and educational discrimination as well as denied access to social services, the study finds that institutional discrimination has a devastating impact on the successful reentry of ex-offenders. This research highlights the need to examine why institutional discrimination exists and how individuals, communities, government, and society plays a distinctive role in the continuation of discrimination against ex-offenders.