Transformative Potential: Mental Health Impact of Reentry Peer Support for Underrepresented Communities

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the challenges faced by individuals from underrepresented communities during the process of reintegration into society after incarceration. The relationship between reintegration into society for individuals from underrepresented communities and mental illness is multifaceted, shaped by systemic inequalities, societal stigmas, and individual challenges. These communities often encounter systemic barriers that hinder their successful transition and perpetuate cycles of incarceration. However, research and practice have shown that peer support programs can play a transformative role in addressing these challenges and promoting positive outcomes for individuals reentering society. This Research Topic seeks to explore the transformative potential of reentry peer support specifically tailored to underrepresented communities.

By exploring the transformative potential of reentry peer support for underrepresented communities, this collection aims to contribute to the advancement of evidence-based practices and policies in the field of mental health and criminal justice reform. By addressing the specific needs of underrepresented populations through traumaresponsive and recovery-focused peer support while and promoting their successful reintegration into society, we can work towards building more equitable and inclusive communities for all individuals affected by the criminal legal system.

This Research Topic outlines the critical areas of investigation needed to understand the transformative potential of reentry peer support for improving mental health outcomes in underrepresented communities, and welcomes submissions focusing on (but not limited to):

• investigating the unique mental health needs and challenges faced by individuals from underrepresented communities during the reentry process;
• examining the effectiveness of reentry peer support interventions in addressing the specific mental health needs of underrepresented populations;
• identifying best practices and strategies for implementing reentry peer support programs that are culturally responsive and inclusive;
• assessing the impact of reentry peer support on reducing recidivism rates and promoting successful community reintegration among underrepresented populations.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Policy Brief
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Reentry Peer, Mental Health, Underrepresented Communities, Reentry Process, Support Programs, Peer Support

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.