Pathways to second chances: a multidisciplinary integrative review of 25 years of research on the employment of formerly incarcerated individuals

In this paper, we present an integrative review of the research literature on the challenges and opportunities surrounding the employment of formerly incarcerated individuals (FIIs). Our primary aim is to integrate 25 years of multidisciplinary evidence into vocational behavior scholarship, offering an employment life-cycle framework that identifies research gaps and practical implications for employers. Grounded in a multidisciplinary approach, we synthesize research across various domains, including criminal justice, psychology, sociology, law, economics, and management, to provide a holistic understanding of the systemic barriers that hinder FIIs' reintegration into the workforce. We introduce an integrative framework that examines the employment life cycle of FIIs, encompassing recruitment, selection, onboarding, development, and retention. We also highlight the critical role of social stigmatization, lack of access to vocational training, and the systemic disconnection between correctional institutions and labor market demands. Furthermore, our review emphasizes the importance of employer engagement and policy interventions in fostering inclusive hiring practices that support the successful reintegration of FIIs. We conclude with a call for future research and practical recommendations focusing on individual, organizational, and systemic factors that influence successful FII employment, highlighting the necessity of tailored vocational programs, social network support, and supportive workplace practices.