Research Report The Impact of Marital and Relationship Status on Social Outcomes for Returning Prisoners
Christy Visher, Carly Knight, Aaron Chalfin, John Roman
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While a large body of empirical research indicates that marriage is associated with criminal activity, to date little research exists on the effects of relationship status on a population of offenders returning to their communities. This study uses data on over 650 former prisoners to examine the impact of relationships on recidivism, substance use, and employment during this critical period of re-entry. Findings suggest that marriage cut the odds of recidivism and drug use in half when compared to those in casual relationships.
Research Areas Crime, justice, and safety Families
Tags Corrections Family structure
Policy Centers Justice Policy Center