Date
1-9-2024
Department
Helms School of Government
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice (PhD)
Chair
Marc Weiss
Keywords
African-American Males, Recidivism, Incarceration, Racism, Reintegration
Disciplines
Law
Recommended Citation
Scott, Amber L., "A Phenomenological Study of the Lived Experiences of African American Males' Challenges in Post Incarceration" (2024). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 5152.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/5152
Abstract
This purpose of this phenomenological study is to understand the lived experiences of African American males in the state of Delaware post-incarceration. Incarceration disproportionately affects African American males leading to numerous difficulties during their transition back into the community. The research sought to comprehend the myriad of challenges and identify potential support systems to help facilitate successful reintegration. By utilizing a qualitative research approach, the study employs in-depth interviews to collect data from African American males who have experienced life post-incarceration. The analysis of the data incorporates elements of critical race theory and labeling theory to unravel the interplay of systematic racism and societal perceptions in shaping their reentry experiences. The study used in-depth interviews to explore the perspectives, emotions, and perceptions of each participant while focusing on the participants’ encounters with different societal systems such as family, housing, employment, and community support. The study also examined how societal stigmas and racial discrimination has impacted participants’ reentry process and shaped their identities. The findings of the study revealed that post-incarceration life for African American males was loaded with numerous challenges. Participants expressed feelings of distrust, alienation, discrimination, and stigmatization leading to difficulties in securing various necessities such as housing, employment, and family reconciliation which ultimately hindered the participant from a fresh start. These insights provided an understanding of the lived experiences of African American males’ post-incarceration and provide implications for societal interventions. By addressing these concerns that perpetuate recidivism, society can employ a more inclusive environment that supports successful reintegration.
