Religiosity, family integration and social capital as predictors of post-incarceration reintegration of ex- prisoners in Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

The current study was carried out to analyze the role of religiosity, family integration, and social capital as predictors of post-incarceration reintegration in Punjab, Pakistan. The current study was carried out using quantitative research methods with the implication of cross-sectional, explanatory, and survey research approaches. Data were collected by using interview schedules by visiting ex-inmates at their community settings and by telephonic interviews. The research instrument was developed by using preexisting scales pertaining to the variables of the study. To obtain the study results, descriptive analysis, KMO factor analysis, reliability analysis, and regression analysis were applied to test the study model using SPSS and Smart PLS SEM (structural equation modelling). The findings of the study showed that all the predictor variables in the model (religiosity, family integration, and social capital) showed a positive and statistically significant effect on the reintegration of ex-prisoners following their release from prison. However, in comparison to all predictor variables, family integration has a strong effect (0.568) on post-incarceration reintegration.