| dc.description.abstract | Women offenders are among the most marginalized groups in Norway. Their situations are characterized by a cluster of difficulties, including substance use, physical and sexual abuse, psychological problems, along with stigma and challenges related to being a sentenced offender. Despite this, some of these women are able to change their lives for the better and strives towards well-being and the ability to lead a meaningful life. However, very little research has been done on capturing the processes and factors that enables this positive change and movement towards enhanced well-being. This study uses the salutogenic framework to illuminate Generalized Resistance Resources (GRRs) and positive life experiences among women offenders. This is a qualitative study, with data collected in five in-depth interviews with women offenders who were making good progression with re-entry into the community, and one group interview with four program employees from an offenders' support project. There are several aspects of these women's lives that contribute to a positive development towards wellbeing. These factors are related to personal strengths, social resources and support, appropriate services and treatment, opportunities for meaningful activities, and reflection. The study concludes that it is possible to identify GRRs in the context of the salutogenic model that seems to help the women move towards enhanced wellbeing. This approach provides insights that more traditional studies on recidivism and desistance is not able to give. | en_US |
