How can families assist in promoting positive health outcomes?
Families and pro-social networks can play a critical role when their loved ones are involved in the juvenile or criminal justice system. Studies have found that increased positive contact with family during incarceration can reduce the likelihood of recidivism.39 In addition to playing an important role in addressing addiction and encouraging reentering individuals to find and keep jobs, families can provide other motivation for change. However, it is important to evaluate the influence that family members may have on an individual’s substance use or criminal activity, which are often intergenerational issues.40 It is important to pay particular attention to the distinct issues that women may encounter upon release when connecting with former partners, who may have had a role in their substance use or may have committed acts of domestic violence. Conversely, any risk to family members posed by re-integrating an individual who has been incarcerated should always be evaluated as well. Pr
