A cross-sectional analysis of release method as a correlate of recidivism among female prisoners in the state of Georgia

The rate of women in the incarcerated population has grown exponentially throughout the country, with nearly one third of Georgia's prison population comprised of women. There is a significant gap in understanding the experiences of women's incarceration, release, and risk of recidivism. A retrospective case-control study of the Georgia Department of Corrections release program has been conducted to determine if differences in release method share a relationship with successfully transitioning back into the community, rather than recommitting crime and recidivism. The study used archival data provided by the Georgia Department of Corrections of a purposive sampling of 717 female inmates released January 2004 through April 2004. Data were evaluated using a series of statistical tests, including t tests, cross tabulation (where appropriate), and binary logistic regression. Findings are used to propose program options for preventing repeat offenses among this particular demographic group.