The Successful Completion of Probation and Parole Among Female Offenders

Abstract

Recent research focusing on women in the criminal justice system has highlighted dramatic increases in incarceration rates and women involved in community corrections. Despite studies that suggest that female offenders have unique and differing needs than their male counterparts, extant literature suggests females typically receive programming and services that were initially designed for male offenders. In an effort to establish what needs are prevalent among a group of female probationer and parolees, data from a statewide sample of 503 women completing their community correction sentences in a Southeastern state between January 1997 and April 1997 are examined. Specifically, this study examines the factors that significantly contribute to the successful completion of probation and parole. Logistic Regression analysis reveals that age, race, and alcohol and drug usage problems were the strongest predictors of success among female offenders. Limitations of these data and policy implication from this research are discussed.