Religion, Psychiatric Symptoms, and Gender Role Conflict Among Incarcerated Black Men.

Abstract

Extant literature is mixed on the role of religiosity as a protective factor for mental health concerns and the effectiveness of faith-based prison programs on a reduction in recidivism. Religiosity and psychiatric symptoms are associated with gender role conflict, yet little is known about these relationships among Black incarcerated men. Undergirded by gender role conflict theory, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between religiosity, 30-day psychiatric symptoms, and three measures of gender role conflict: emotional restrictiveness, work-family conflict, and affectionate behavior towards men. In a sample of 206 Black men nearing community re-entry, our results indicated strong religious beliefs and psychiatric symptoms were associated with less emotional restrictiveness. Religious influence and psychiatric symptoms were positively associated with perceived work-family conflict. Further, strong religious beliefs moderated the association between psychiatric symptoms and work-family conflict. Implications for faith-based prison support programs as mechanisms for reducing recidivism among Black men are discussed.