Effect of Framing of Reentry Program on Perceptions of Ex-Offenders

Abstract

We examine the effect of the framing of reentry programs on participants’ perceptions of ex-offenders. Across four studies, participants expressed more favorable attitudes toward an ex-offender who completed a global citizen reentry program than an ex-offender who did not complete a reentry program. The results show that ex-offenders who complete a global citizen reentry program (vs. no program) are viewed as more likeable and similar to oneself, which then predicts reduced prejudice and greater endorsement to hire the ex-offender. The results are discussed in relation to the crossed categorization model of prejudice reduction.