Reintegration of prisoners into urban society: Between social imprisonment and therapeutic support mechanisms, TMF as a model

This theoretical study examines the social and psychological experiences of formerly incarcerated individuals and their effects on the urban family. Research in urban sociology indicates that released prisoners often confront forms of social stigma, alienation, and self-punishment, which contribute to disconnection from family and community and increase psychological distress. These processes influence not only the individual but also reshape the emotional, social, and economic dynamics of the urban family. Within this context, Multiple Family Therapy (MFT) is presented as a potential intervention for addressing these challenges. By bringing together several families in shared therapeutic sessions, MFT promotes mutual support, facilitates the exchange of experiences, and enhances coping and problem-solving skills. The application of this approach draws on interdisciplinary collaboration between sociology and psychology and accounts for the social pressures and economic vulnerabilities characteristic of urban environments. Integrating sociological and psychoanalytic perspectives may support the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals into urban spaces, foster a renewed sense of belonging, and reduce the risk of recidivism. This integration also has the potential to strengthen family resilience and social cohesion, contributing to a more supportive and inclusive urban context.

• prisoner reentry
• formerly incarcerated individuals
• social stigma
• alienation
• self-punishment
• urban households
• multiple family therapy
• family resilience
• social cohesion
• recidivism
• psychological distress
• sense of belonging
• urban sociology
• psychoanalysis

• 3 — الصحة الجيدة والرفاه
• 10 — الحد من أوجه عدم المساواة

• Criminal Justice and Corrections Analysis
• Criminal Justice and Penology
• Counseling, Therapy, and Family Dynamics
• prisoner reentry
• formerly incarcerated individuals
• social stigma
• alienation
• self-punishment
• urban households
• multiple family therapy
• family resilience
• Sociology and Political Science
• Law
• Clinical Psychology
• Social Sciences
• Psychology