No Family, No Friends: An Instrumental Variable Analysis to Revisit the Reintegration Model in Mexico

Abstract

Literature on recidivism and desistance has acquired increasing relevance in the criminological discussions of recent years. This study seeks to contribute to this discourse by implementing an instrumental variable analysis to examine inmates’ expectations regarding the factors that play a central role in their perceptions of factors for successful social reintegration. Results indicate that education is perceived as a key factor, while the support of family and friends exerts a limited influence over incarcerated persons’ perceptions of social reintegration possibilities in Mexico. These results serve as a basis for discussing barriers to social reintegration and for exploring public policy modifications in Latin America.