by Thomas P. O’Connor

According to the psychological literature, people typically follow one of three paths to create meaning in their lives and feel connected: a humanist approach (H), a spiritual approach (S), or a religious approach (R). Some studies have found that the practice of spirituality and religion in a prison or reentry context can reduce in-prison infractions and recidivism. This article discusses inmates’ involvement in H/S/R opportunities, these activities’ connection with success on reentry, and the H/S/R motivations that can attract civilians toward volunteering with inmates to improve their outcomes.

The article was originally published in American Jails magazine, July/August 2012 and appears here courtesy of the American Jail Association.

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