Formerly Incarcerated People With Disabilities: Perceptions of Accessibility and Accommodations in Correctional Programs

Abstract

Much research centers on correctional programming and successful reintegration; however, little work explores how incarcerated people with disabilities (IPWDs) perceive accessibility and accommodations in such programs. Given that this population has a higher recidivism rate than others, it is important to better understand unique problems faced by IPWDs. The sample was drawn from a local reentry program in Virginia. Utilizing qualitative methods, data were collected through a focus group interview and in-depth interviews. Three themes identified from these data were the lack of attention to programs, barriers to medical services, and dissatisfaction with correctional staff. Implications for correctional facilities are presented as well as suggestions for future research.

Keywords: correctional programs; prisoners with disabilities; qualitative methods.