After inmates are released from prison, they are referred to by a variety of terms, ranging from informal and common to formal and respectful. The specific term used often depends on the context, the speaker's intent, and the individual's journey of reintegration into society.
Common Terminology
Several terms are commonly used to describe individuals who have been released from incarceration. These terms often focus on their past status as a prisoner or their conviction history.
- Ex-offender: This term is widely used in many official and unofficial contexts. It signifies that the individual has a past criminal conviction.
- Former Inmate or Former Prisoner: These are straightforward, descriptive terms that simply state the person's past status without adding a specific judgment.
- Ex-con, Former Convict, or Convicted Felon: These terms are often applied to individuals who were incarcerated for serious crimes (more than misdemeanors), regardless of how much time has passed since their release. While widely understood, some of these terms, particularly "ex-con," can carry negative connotations and perpetuate stigma.
Preferred and Respectful Terms
In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards using more person-first and empowering language to reduce stigma and promote successful reentry into society. These terms emphasize the individual's current status and future potential rather than solely their past.
- Formerly Incarcerated Person/Individual: This is a widely advocated person-first term. It places the emphasis on the individual as a person, with incarceration being an experience they went through, rather than their defining characteristic. Many advocacy groups and academic institutions prefer this term to promote dignity and reduce the dehumanizing effects of past labels.
- Example: "Programs focused on supporting formerly incarcerated individuals have shown great success in reducing recidivism."
- Returning Citizen: This term is often used in the context of reentry programs and policy discussions. It highlights the individual's return to the community and their status as a citizen with rights and responsibilities. This term is particularly embraced by those who advocate for restorative justice and reintegration.
- Example: "The local initiative helps returning citizens find housing and employment."
- Justice-Involved Individual: This is a broader term that can apply to anyone who has interacted with the criminal justice system, including those who are currently incarcerated, on probation, or parole, as well as those who have been released. It is often used by official agencies and research bodies seeking neutral terminology.
Contextual Usage of Terms
The choice of terminology can significantly impact perception and the individual's sense of self-worth. Understanding when and how to use different terms is crucial.
| Term | Common Context | Connotation |
|---|---|---|
| Ex-offender | General, formal (e.g., background checks) | Neutral to slightly negative |
| Former Inmate/Prisoner | Descriptive, factual | Neutral |
| Ex-con / Former Convict | Informal, sometimes pejorative | Negative, stigmatizing |
| Formerly Incarcerated Person | Advocacy, academic, person-first language | Respectful, empowering |
| Returning Citizen | Reentry programs, community support | Positive, hopeful |
| Justice-Involved Individual | Official reports, research, policy | Neutral, broad |
The Reentry Process
Upon release, individuals typically enter a phase known as "reentry" or "post-release." This period involves adapting to life outside of prison, often under supervision (such as parole or probation), and navigating challenges related to employment, housing, family reunification, and social reintegration. During this time, they may be referred to as:
- Parolee: An individual released from prison who is serving the remainder of their sentence under supervision in the community.
- Probationer (if applicable): While not typically a post-release term from prison, some individuals might be sentenced to probation directly, or transition to probation after a period of parole.
Ultimately, using person-first language like "formerly incarcerated person" or "returning citizen" is increasingly encouraged as it respects the individual's humanity and promotes their successful reintegration into society.
