Waiting to be Caught: The Devolution of Health for Women Newly Released from Jail

Traditionally understood ideas about health and criminal behaviors are integrally linked within an individual's health, as well as a community's health. In a time when women are increasingly jailed, it is important to examine the life ways of women who are newly released. This study, using participatory action research and critical hermeneutic data analysis techniques, examined women's health and social experiences following their release from jail. Findings suggest that women experienced an onward and downward momentum of health indices, or devolution, with regard to economic status, physical and mental health status, intimate and family relationships, and general social functioning. It is argued that basic public health and community nursing interventions would provide a more seamless transition from jail back into community and would positively impact the individual and community health issues that are embedded within the criminal activity.

Expressed needs and behavioral risk factors of HIV-positive inmates

Considerable research has found inmates to be at high risk for HIV/AIDS. Furthermore, research has shown additional HIV/AIDS threats faced by females in the general population and especially by those incarcerated. Behavioral interventions and educational programs have been developed based on these studies. However, few empirical studies have examined the self-expressed needs of HIV-positive inmates or the degree to which inmates' needs are gender specific. This pilot study compares the needs of HIV-positive male and female jail detainees. Results illustrate surprisingly few differences between men and women and their HIV-related needs. The primary need identified for both males and females was postrelease housing. Somewhat unexpectedly, HIV treatment and care ranked low on the list of needs. The implications of these finds are discussed.