Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Date of Degree

6-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Program

Social Welfare

Advisor

Alexis Kuerbis

Committee Members

Katharine Bloeser

Nancy Giunta

Barbra Teater

Subject Categories

Criminology and Criminal Justice | Military and Veterans Studies | Social Justice | Social Work

Keywords

Black Veterans, Veterans, Incarceration, VA healthcare, Racial Disparities, Justice-Involved populations, military trauma.

Abstract

This study investigates racial disparities in access to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services among incarcerated Veterans, with a specific focus on Black incarcerated Veterans. Drawing from critical race theory and the minority stress model, the study explores how race, discharge status, military experiences, and mental health conditions intersect to affect potential eligibility for and receipt of VA healthcare and benefits. Utilizing a secondary analysis of data from the Survey of Prison Inmates (SPI), the research employs quantitative methods to examine whether disparities exist in discharge characterizations, potential eligibility for VA care, and service utilization by race. Findings highlight significant inequities: Black Veterans are disproportionately discharged under less-than-honorable conditions, are more likely to suffer from high-risk mental health conditions and face compounded barriers to accessing VA services conceivably due to systemic bias within military and VA institutions. These disparities can contribute to higher risks of recidivism, homelessness, and poor health outcomes. The study underscores the urgent need for policy reforms, including changes in discharge review procedures and enhanced support for Veterans with racial trauma, to ensure equitable access to care and successful reintegration for all justice-involved Veterans.

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