Date of Award

8-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

Committee Chair/Advisor

Dr. Marieke Van Puymbroeck

Committee Member

Dr. Brandi Crowe

Committee Member

Dr. Deborah Tysor

Abstract

The United States currently incarcerates more individuals than any other country in the world, creating an effect known as mass incarceration. While incarcerated, individuals’ physical and mental health can be affected. Yoga is a feasible, cost-effective modality that may be utilized in criminal justice facilities, to assist in the process of improving the physical and mental health of individuals who are incarcerated or in confinement. The purpose of this study was to explore the structure of yoga programs that are being implemented throughout United States criminal justice facilities and the effects that the COVID-19 pandemic had on programs. Through a multi-method research design, a nationwide survey investigated the structure of yoga programs being implemented within criminal justice facilities and what the yoga program entails. Twenty-five participants completed the survey and were included in this study. This exploratory study used quantitative data analysis to describe the specific characteristics that are being applied in yoga programs throughout various criminal justice facilities. Through content and summative analysis, the qualitative data revealed themes related to the outcomes of yoga programs being implemented in criminal justice facilities. Limitations and implications regarding this research study are discussed, as well as suggestions for future research.

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