Violent Victimization During Reentry: Prevalence, Triggers, and Impact on Mental Health

Abstract Victimization is associated with a cascade of negative outcomes, and the literature has been enriched by research that situates victimization in the life context of key social groups such as children, youth, women, and veterans. Yet, less is known about violent victimization in the context of prisoner reentry. Using longitudinal data documenting reentry experiences, the current study examines the prevalence, triggers and impact of victimization among returning citizens with specific attention given to mental health outcomes. Longitudinal multilevel modeling is employed to estimate the heterogenous victimization experiences among respondents as well as the temporal change in victimization over the follow-up period of a respondent. Results underscore an alarmingly high rate of victimization against returning citizens. Risky neighborhood and family environments are significant predictors of their victimization. Upon victimization, the respondents’ mental health deteriorates. Policy implications and directions for the future research are provided.