The synthesis of the systematic
literature review’s findings will be utilized to create a self-directed
resource program, specifically a handbook, designed to assist previously
incarcerated individuals who have struggled with addiction and undergone
rehabilitation. This handbook will focus on providing effective holistic
aftercare resources to support these individual’s post-release. The aim is to
offer a comprehensive, accessible guide that addresses the multifaceted needs
of this population, drawing on evidence-based practices and insights gleaned
from the literature review. This resource is intended to facilitate their
transition back into society, enhance their well-being, and reduce the
likelihood of recidivism by providing them with the necessary tools and
information for sustained recovery and successful reintegration. The PRISMA
(Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework
will be used as a data collection and analysis protocol and is a widely
accepted set of guidelines that researchers use to conduct systematic
literature reviews, ensuring transparency and rigor in the review process
(Rethlefsen et al., 2021). Databases within the University of Arizona Global
Campus library such as EBSCO, SAGE, and ProQuest, as well as other web-based
databases such as Google Scholar, will be used to locate relevant literature. This
systematic literature review will provide a comprehensive and structured
approach to reviewing and synthesizing existing research studies related to
best practices and resources for supporting previously incarcerated individuals
who have experienced addiction.