reintegration | Definition

Doc's CJ Glossary by Adam J. McKee
Course: General Term

Reintegration in corrections is the process of successfully reintegrating offenders into society through collaborative efforts to reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and provide economic benefits.


Reintegration in the corrections context refers to the process of reintegrating offenders into society after they have served their sentence. It is a critical component of the criminal justice system that seeks to promote successful reentry, reduce recidivism, and enhance public safety.

The process of reintegration begins while the offender is still incarcerated and involves a range of services and programs designed to prepare the offender for a successful return to the community. These services may include education and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and counseling.

Upon release, the offender is typically placed on probation or parole and may be required to comply with a range of conditions, including regular check-ins with a probation or parole officer, participation in treatment programs, and drug and alcohol testing. The goal is to provide the offender with support and supervision as they transition back into the community.

Successful reintegration requires a collaborative effort between the offender, the criminal justice system, and the community. Offenders must be committed to making positive changes in their lives and must be willing to take advantage of the services and programs available to them. The criminal justice system must provide effective and evidence-based reintegration services and programs, as well as adequate supervision and support. The community must be engaged in the process and must provide opportunities for employment, housing, and other resources that can support successful reintegration.

One of the primary goals of reintegration in the corrections context is to reduce recidivism. Recidivism refers to the tendency of offenders to return to criminal behavior after their release from incarceration. Reintegration programs aim to reduce recidivism by providing offenders with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to successfully reintegrate into society.

Reintegration in the corrections context also seeks to enhance public safety by reducing the risk of reoffending. Successful reintegration can lead to reduced crime rates, as offenders are less likely to commit new crimes when they are provided with the support and resources they need to succeed.


[ Glossary ]

Last Modified: 04/27/2023

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