This paper reports on an examination of women’s social networks during or following the completion of a sentence, serving time in a residential community corrections facility, such as prison or jail; the paper discusses the research methodology, findings, and implications for correctional facilities as they endeavor to support women’s community networks.
In this article, the authors explored the social networks of 20 women who were in the process, or had completed, a sentence at a residential community corrections facility. Drawing on egocentric social network data and in-depth qualitative interviews, they analyzed the kinds of support that were most and least available to women, who were members of their network and what type of support they provided, and the role of complex relationships and peers. The authors found that women often relied on complex relationships and strategically navigated these relationships to access support. Many women also expressed a desire to mend and heal damaged relationships, recognizing their significance in their support system. Although peers can play a critical role in providing support to system-involved women, community corrections must invest in facilitating supportive connections and relationships among women. Ultimately, this research offers insights that can guide community corrections organizations in building and repairing women’s networks. (Published Abstract Provided)