Date of Submission

5-7-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Department

Psychology

Advisor

Caroline I. Jalain, Ph.D.

Keywords

Probation, Probation officers, Recidivism, Prisoners—Deinstitutionalization

LCSH

Probation, Probation officers, Recidivism, Prisoners—Deinstitutionalization

Abstract

In the United States, probation is the most commonly imposed criminal sentence, necessitating an abundance of probation officers (POs) to serve the system. Given high rates of failed reentry in tandem with high rates of recidivism, there have been calls for a reevaluation of post-conviction supervision systems and strategies, including the PO. The PO is the final form of assistance provided by the criminal justice system to those facing reentry and can heavily impact a client’s likelihood of recidivism. Despite years of research and attempted reform, more studies are still needed to determine strategies for successful reentry outcomes. This study aimed to analyze the PO-client relationship through assessing PO perceptions of reentry needs and the role in which the PO should contribute to meeting these needs. This study included interviews with POs at state and federal levels. While the study intended to include the client perspective as well, this was unrealized due to unanticipated barriers. Thus, the study examined the PO role in detail, examining how POs themselves define the role including their perceptions of the needs of clients, what strategies and resources they use to meet these needs, and challenges to meeting these needs.

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