The correlation between vocational training in prisons and reduced recidivism rates is supported by numerous studies. Despite this, only about one-third of federal and state prison residents participate in vocational training.
Employment is a crucial factor in the successful reintegration of former prison residents into society, reducing the likelihood of reoffending. In fact, up to 89% of those who return to prison are unemployed. Vocational training equips individuals with necessary skills for obtaining and maintaining jobs. As a result, those who have undergone such training are not only more likely to find employment, but they also have a lower tendency to reoffend.
Many ex-prison residents lack vocational skills and a consistent employment history, making it difficult for them to secure and maintain jobs. These factors, coupled with the challenges of transitioning from prison life to society, contribute to high unemployment rates among former prison residents. Hence, providing education and vocational training in prison can be instrumental in equipping these individuals with the skills they need for the job market, ultimately reducing their likelihood of reoffending.
A comprehensive meta-analysis by the RAND Corporation indicates that prison education programs, including general education and vocational training, are a cost-effective method for reducing recidivism. For every dollar invested in prison education, the associated costs of re-incarceration reduce by $4 to $5 within the first three years of release.
It was found that prison residents participating in correctional education programs were 43% less likely to return to prison. Moreover, employment rates post-release were 13% higher among these individuals. Specifically, those who underwent vocational training were 28% more likely to be employed post-release.
Current challenges include the high rates of recidivism nationally, with four out of every ten prison residents returning to prison within three years of release. Furthermore, educational attainment and vocational skills among prison populations are generally lower than in the broader population, and the transition from prison to society can be a significant barrier to securing stable employment. Therefore, larger more comprehensive education and vocational programs in prisons could be a key part of addressing these challenges and improving reintegration outcomes. And as prison officials grapple with budget constraints, education programs in prisons present a viable solution for reducing costs even in the short term. Such initiatives not only help save money by reducing re-incarceration costs, but they also help transform the lives of the individuals involved, empowering them to break the cycle of crime and contribute positively to society post-release.
