Changing Identities of Re-entering Individuals

• Bianka Trezza, Sociology, University of Delaware
• Analise Riera, Sociology, University of Delaware

• Chrysanthi Leon, Sociology, University of Delaware

The process and experience of re-entry are not often taught or truly understood. While the topics of recidivism, re-entry, and rehabilitation are often brought up in academia and professional settings, the processes for the individuals involved vary greatly from case to case and are tedious and difficult. Additionally, even less attention is given to re-entering individuals’ language and the development of their identity throughout their carceral experiences. To highlight these people’s lives, we focused on individuals’ experiences and positions pre- and post-incarceration. We asked, how are a person’s identity and language choices affected by their experiences pre- and post-incarceration? We explored this through interviews conducted with re-entering individuals. We closely read and coded two transcripts, breaking down first-hand accounts of an individual’s life experiences pre- and post-incarceration. We examined word and language choice, focusing on how jargon signaled one’s transformed identity post-incarceration. Our research explores recurring themes of “I” and identity statements and how these identities change in relation to pre- and post-carceral experience, as well as the re-entry process. Alterations in identity, and therefore language, were evident before and after carceral experiences, demonstrating the impact of incarceration and the events that led to it. Through this, we hope to further educate the general public on the effects of incarceration and re-entry on how individuals identify themselves.