The purpose and goals of the inmate mentoring program are rooted in Sutherland and Cressey’s (2006) Differential Association Theory. There are nine propositions of the theory based on the idea that criminal behavior is learned, largely through an individual’s social interactions and relationships. More simply, the theory suggests people become criminals because they associate with other criminals. In examining the relationships that influence criminality, theory suggests close circles of friends encourage the transition of social values, attitudes, and motivations. Analysis of Differential Association Theory in adolescent peer groups shows how exposure to pro-delinquency (definitions and behavior) results in an increased likelihood of delinquent involvement. Differential Association Theory also discusses how an individual’s perception of the law changes when surrounded by criminals.
The individual may view the law as unfavorable, and when this feeling becomes excessive by frequency, intensity, or duration, the person is driven to criminal action. This could explain why an inmate is more likely to recidivate when visited by someone engaged in criminal activity. Research shows the opposite is also true; inmates visited by someone who promotes prosocial behavior are less likely to re-offend upon release, which supports implementing a mentoring program. Research of at-risk adolescents suggests interventions fostering associations with prosocial others is a reliable method of steering them away from the path of delinquency. The lessons learned here can be applied to adult mentoring practices.
Approximately 40 to 80 percent of adult inmates have been found to rely heavily on close family and friend relationships upon release as a crutch in overcoming reentry obstacles, like homelessness and joblessness. This support network helps inmates create better prosocial coping strategies that last because the individual believes they are cared for. The inmate mentoring program aims to strengthen this support network from the start of the sentence.
Early intervention allows more time to solidify prosocial behaviors and skills an inmate needs for reentry. More importantly, the program uses a community volunteer as opposed to family or friends. Research shows visits from spouses and children in particular can have a negative effect because an inmate may feel strain in not being able to provide for their family or parent their child. By providing a community member the inmate could view as their peer, the possibility of strain is removed, but the influence necessary to facilitate prosocial behavior still exists
