American Epidemic: The Societal and Multi-generational Impacts Caused by the Mass Incarceration of Women in the United States

Author

Jessica Younts, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow

Date of Award

2021

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education

Advisor

Marcelo Castro

Committee Member

Grace A. Telesco

Committee Member

Tina Jaeckle

Keywords

collateral consequences, cycles of incarceration and poverty, mass incarceration, recidivism, reentry, women

Abstract

This study examined the social impacts of incarcerating women, specifically mothers, as well as the far-reaching collateral consequences that the mass incarceration of women in the United States has on formerly incarcerated women’s successful reintegration back into society and analyzed how the harsh policies that exist detrimentally impact family members and society as a whole. This study revealed several themes that show the far reaching damage incarceration itself has on women and their families and provides a more comprehensive analysis of the incalculable costs of mass incarceration. By raising awareness to the long-term impact on society, this research can provide a basis to reexamine current policies and help highlight and drive the need for systemic change within the criminal justice system’s failed approach to crime, punishment, and reentry.

NSUWorks Citation

Jessica Younts. 2021. American Epidemic: The Societal and Multi-generational Impacts Caused by the Mass Incarceration of Women in the United States. Doctoral dissertation. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education. (347)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/fse_etd/347.