Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: Prisoner reentry is a contemporary twist to a historical concern for correctional efficacy. In general, correctional literature and theory has taken a fragmented approach in the discussion of community reintegration. Past initiatives have focused upon a specific dimension – institutional programming, parole supervision, community social services, social networks, vocational training and placement, or faith-based programs – to the expense of multiple related and influential dimensions. With the advent of a revitalized focus on reentry, initiatives have attempted to take a holistic approach; combining all identifiable risks and needs of the returning offender and developing individualized pathways of reintegration. The present study will examine the multifaceted complexities of reentry programming through a review of reentry initiatives from 1995 to present. First, and of focal concern, are the salient themes and principle components of reentry initiatives. In a related fashion, there is a need to inventory the range of correctional best practices that are utilized to address reentry dimensions. Secondly, an attempt is made to determine the degree of fragmentation that still exists within current initiatives and pinpoint hurdles to implementation. Finally, methodological and theoretical implications for the continued examination of prisoner reentry initiatives will be examined.

Publication Type: Proceeding
Abstract: “The Body in Bits and Pieces: Now-Time and the American Dream”

Mary Caputi
California State University, Long Beach


This essay brings the Lacanian premise of the fragmented pre-oedipal body to bear upon recent scholarship regarding political foundings. It makes use of the premise regarding the body in bits and pieces as it relates to the American founding, and America’s promise as something truly “new.” Drawing on the writings of Catherine Holland (2001) and Walter Benjamin (1998; 1999), the essay emphasizes those ways in which the United States actually replays the worst of Old World aggressions – i.e., via its racism and sexism. Such a reenactment brings to mind a time-honored vision of hell wherein the worst elements of a former life are repeated ad infinitum. Although the American dream is steeped in notions of our nation’s uniqueness, which ensures that we represent something truly new, this essay points out the ways in which we have repeated the politics of Old World aggression, and thus have yet to experience the “now time” we were meant to embody.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: Political efficacy has been the subject of much inquiry in politics. This study diverges from the mainstream, because it concerns itself with not only the levels of citizen's efficacy, but also with how these levels differ in a federal system.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: This research explores differences in teaching on campus and ‘behind the walls.’ We conducted focus groups and qualitative interviews with professors who teach in campus and prison settings. While professors generally find the prison teaching experience to be a positive one, they identify seven distinctive features of teaching college English in prison settings. These include: 1) a higher level of prisoner motivation and commitment than that typically found in required courses on campus; 2) greater disparity between a prisoner-student’s verbal and written abilities (a problem of missing pieces) than is typically seen in a traditional undergraduate; 3) a wider range of abilities and needs reflected within the prison classroom; 4) relative strength of prisoners in personal essays and poetry; 5) relative weakness of prisoners in critical reading and writing (analysis, synthesis and evaluation); 6) relatively lower ability of prisoners to self-censor and correct work; and 7) ability of prisoners to use the correctional environment as a source of growth.

Many of the weaknesses identified by faculty are ones that may impede successful re-entry to society. As a topic for further research, it may be hypothesized that educational programs that address these deficits will enhance the likelihood of successful adjustment post-incarceration.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: Are military forces that prevail in war also prepared to pick up the pieces afterward? Recent studies have identified serious shortcomings in US military planning and execution for transition to and from hostilities in Iraq. In the fall of 2005, the US Department of Defense issued a directive that gives stability operations ?priority comparable to combat operations? and specifies that stability operations skills are to be developed and integrated across all levels of professional military education (PME). The policy?s civil-military character reflects a new widespread understanding of the importance of civil-military cooperation (CIMIC). CIMIC has gained significantly in importance over the last decade, especially in the post-conflict reconstruction of war-torn societies where sustained violence and lawlessness requires prolonged military presence and close collaboration between military forces, local populations, and international and non-governmental organizations. Although CIMIC activities are becoming a regular operational component of post-conflict reconstruction and nation building missions, a lack of cognitive preparation and cultural education for these missions may hamper mission accomplishment. Using survey methodology, the purpose of this research is to: (1) examine national conceptual differences in CIMIC doctrines, priorities, specified activities, command structures, rules of engagement, etc.; (2) assess the cognitive preparation of soldiers and officers for CIMIC and the operational demands of peace building; (3) review the relationship between military objectives and civilian control; and (4) evaluate the extent to which CIMIC activities contribute to long-term sustainable structures and provide lessons that can be applied to broader cross-national cooperation in other areas.