Copyright 2004 Science Letter via NewsRx.com & NewsRx.net


The Justice Policy Institute (2002) estimated that between 1980 and 2000, three times more African American men went to prison than to universities and colleges.

A study published in the Journal of Nursing Scholarship supports that following release from prison, men in this demographic group need steady jobs and stable homes to prevent imminent health problems, yet find it extremely difficult to do so.

In this study, a group of formerly incarcerated African American men were interviewed over a 3-month period to find out about their experiences after being released. Data reflected a decline in the types of jobs available to them in comparison to opportunities before incarceration.

These men were limited in how they were able to conduct a job search and those who did find success in work were only able to do so "self-employed." An inability to find affordable housing was also identified as an obstacle while transitioning from prison to society.

Further, results showed that homelessness and unemployment prevented these African American men from maintaining healthy lifestyles and that in general, ethnic and minority groups suffer disproportionately from poor health. Lack of employment limits access to healthcare services and insurance, further keeping these groups from maintaining their health at a level and convenience available to others who do have jobs and stable homes.

"Careful thought about the effects of the complex issues of joblessness and homelessness on formerly incarcerated African American men is required to determine how best to support African American families and communities as we work to strengthen our collective health and resilience as these men return home," said author Cheryl L. Cooke, of the University of Washington, Seattle.

Nearly 8 out of every 10 African American men will be incarcerated at some time in their lives, which can affect families through generations, meaning that their children will also be more likely to serve time in jail (Cooke CL, Joblessness and homelessness as precursors of health problems in formerly incarcerated African American men. J Nurs Scholarsh, 2004;36(2):155-60).

This article was prepared by Science Letter editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2004, Science Letter via NewsRx.com & NewsRx.net.