Goals and Plans of Incarcerated Men Postrelease. (April 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van den Berg, Jacob J.; Bock, Beth C.; Roberts, Mary B.; Parker, Donna R.; Martin, Rosemarie A.; Stein, L. A. R.; Clarke, Jennifer G.
• Is Part Of: Journal of correctional health care. Volume 22:Number 2(2016)
• Page Start: 146
• Page End: 156
• Publication Date: 2016-04
• Subjects: plans -- goals -- incarcerated males -- healthy behaviors -- smoking abstinence; Prisoners -- Health and hygiene -- United States -- Periodicals; Prisoners -- Medical care -- United States -- Periodicals; 365.667
• DOI: 10.1177/1078345816635187
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1078-3458

Abstract

Prior research has not examined the self-identified goals and plans of incarcerated people as they approach release from prison. This study analyzed the goals and plans generated during a motivational interviewing counseling session of incarcerated men who participated in a randomized controlled trial of a smoking abstinence intervention in a tobacco-free prison in the northeastern United States. Using thematic analysis, 53 written goals and plans were independently coded by trained research assistants to identify major themes that included (1) staying smoke-free or reducing the number of cigarettes smoked postrelease, (2) engaging in physical activities to improve health and wellness, and (3) spending time with family and/or friends. Implications for working with inmates to identify their plans and goals to remain smoke-free after incarceration are discussed.