title: "I Want a Second Chance": Experiences of African American Fathers in Reentry.
abstract: With over 700,000 people on average released from prison each year to communities, greater attention is warranted on the experiences and needs of those who are parents and seeking to develop healthy relationships with their children and families. This study seeks to explore the experiences of African American fathers in reentry. Qualitative data from 16 African American men enrolled in a fellowship program for fathers were collected from a focus group and analyzed for common themes and using standpoint theory. Four themes emerged that focused on fathers' commitment toward healthy and successful reintegration postincarceration: redemption, employment, health care, and social support. Focus group participants actively strive to develop and rebuild healthy relationships with their children through seeking gainful employment and through bonding with like-minded peers. Barriers in accessing health care are also discussed. Research findings may inform future programs and policies related to supporting fathers and their children in reentry.
authors: State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA leconte.dill@downstate.edu.
authors: LeConté J
authors: LJ
authors: Dill
authors: Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
authors: Carlos
authors: C
authors: Mahaffey
authors: Urban League of Greater Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.
authors: Tracey
authors: T
authors: Mosley
authors: Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
authors: Henrie
authors: H
authors: Treadwell
authors: Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
authors: Fabeain
authors: F
authors: Barkwell
authors: Foreverfamily, Inc., Atlanta, GA, USA.
authors: Sandra
authors: S
authors: Barnhill
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001741:Black or African American; D005219:Father-Child Relations; D005220:Fathers / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010332:Paternal Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012917:Social Adjustment; D012944:Social Support; D014481:United States
keywords: African American men; fathering; incarceration; reentry; social determinants of health; stigma