Ex-prisoners’ recidivism risks are high. Several theories state that employment can reduce these risks but emphasize that the protective role of employment is conditional on job qualities (work... Show moreEx-prisoners’ recidivism risks are high. Several theories state that employment can reduce these risks but emphasize that the protective role of employment is conditional on job qualities (work intensity, job duration, etc.). Longitudinal research on the role of employment in ex-prisoners’ recidivism patterns is scarce, and most existing work used a simplistic employment measure (i.e., employed vs. unemployed), leaving the topic of job quality underexplored. This study examines the association between employment characteristics and recidivism among Dutch ex-prisoners. Using longitudinal data of the Prison Project (n = 714), we found that not just any job, but particularly stable employment and jobs with a higher occupational level could help reduce crime rates among these high-risk offenders. Many ex-prisoners face a human capital deficit that complicates the guidance to high-quality jobs. It might, however, be possible to help place ex-prisoners in stable employment. Show less
Ramakers, A.A.T.; Van Wilsem, J.A.; Nieuwbeerta, P.; Dirkzwager, A.J.E. 2016
This study examines to what extent ex-prisoners return to their pre-prison job and identifies factors that facilitate or hinder this outcome. Data from a longitudinal study of Dutch pretrial... Show moreThis study examines to what extent ex-prisoners return to their pre-prison job and identifies factors that facilitate or hinder this outcome. Data from a longitudinal study of Dutch pretrial detainees were analyzed to examine whether those who were employed at the time of arrest returned to their pre-prison employer, found new employment, or remained jobless in the first half year following prison. Results show that one in three employed ex-prisoners found employment through their previous employer. The findings emphasize the relevance of recent employment ties for successful reintegration and add nuance to the assumption that employers are reluctant to hire this group of workers. Show less
