Isabelle Callahan successfully defends her MA thesis

Congratulations to Isabelle Callahan for successfully defending her MA thesis titled "Unlocking identity change: The influence of social support behind bars."

Abstract

Longitudinal changes in youth identity have been associated with changes in offending such that pro-social changes are related to desistance. Though identity naturally develops over the life course, major events like admission to custody might prompt an individual to seek immediate identity changes. Existing identity literature highlights the necessity of social support in actualizing any personal motivations for change. This study uses a subsample (n = 124) from the Incarcerated Serious and Violent Young Offenders Study to examine changes in youth identity during custodial sentences in a Canadian province. Regression analyses are used to understand associations between identity change and social supports within custodial facilities, including treatment programs and interpersonal relationships. Findings indicate that experiences in custody are related to changes in identity. These analyses further our understanding of how custodial sentences impact young individuals and whether the social supports available within Canadian institutions promote positive changes.