Date of Award

Spring 5-5-2026

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Criminology and Criminal Justice

First Advisor

Courtney McDonald

Second Advisor

Tracey L. Woodard

Third Advisor

Reid Toth

Abstract

Women with felony convictions who serve prison sentences encounter significant barriers during reentry, making it difficult to achieve stability. These barriers are shaped by stigma, background check policies, and limited access to supportive resources, often leading to feelings of hopelessness and isolation. The current study analyzes Reddit posts made by self-identified women in the r/Felons subreddit to understand how they describe these barriers and how they use online spaces for support. A qualitative content analysis was used to identify common themes related to employment, education, housing, and stigma. Many posts reflect frustration, discouragement, and anger toward the criminal justice system and reentry process. Women frequently described limited employment options and expressed reluctance to pursue jobs they perceived as traditionally “male.” They described how their past accomplishments were overlooked once their criminal record was revealed. Women also sought advice, shared personal experiences, and wanted to engage with others who share similar backgrounds. This research highlights how online communities can serve as both emotional outlets and informal support systems. Examining these spaces provides insight into women’s reentry experiences and emphasizes the importance of considering gendered barriers in reentry research and policy.

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