Date of Award

Spring 5-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Sociology

First Advisor

Jennifer Mueller

Second Advisor

Eun-sil Lee

Abstract

Formerly incarcerated individuals face stigmatization at work because of their conviction history. Previous research focuses on the difficulty of finding a job once reintegrating into society. However, few studies speak on the actual treatment at work that these individuals experience and if it affects them from doing good deeds in the community. In doing so, the significance of social bonds, empathizing among co-workers, and motivation are outlined to suggest how these factors have an impact on formerly incarcerated individuals' success in the work environment and giving. A regression analysis of the 2012 General Social Survey (N=654) supports the first hypothesized statement: Formerly incarcerated people will experience higher levels of workplace exclusion and negative treatment than people who have never been incarcerated. However, the results refute the second hypothesized statement: Ex-incarcerated people who are excluded at work, are less likely to be involved in charitable ways and engage in the community in ways that other people might expect of ex-incarcerated people. Consistent with Labeling theory and Social Control theory, the findings suggest support towards formerly incarcerated individuals being stigmatized which leads to the effect of how they give back to their community.

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