Parole Reentry and Social Capital: The Centrality of Homelessness

Abstract

Why are some parolees more successful in reentering society compared to others? Using a social capital theoretical perspective, we explore the central role housing plays in reentry. Seventy-three semistructured personal interviews were conducted with parolees reentering the community. The authors compared and contrasted the experiences of individuals who were released to secure housing with those who were homeless. Having access to housing facilitates successful reentry by enabling the acquisition, accumulation, and deployment of social capital among ex-offenders. Social capital allows parolees’ to navigate social interactions and access jobs, transportation, and finances. The authors make a case for policies designed to secure housing for parolees following release.