Reduce Recidivism

Can Recidivism be Reduced? “77% of inmates released from prison are re-incarcerated within 5 years of their release. More than 37% of those prisoners are arrested within 6 months of their release, and 57% are arrested by the end of the first year” (Bureau of Justice 1). Despite people saying it can’t be reduced and because re-entry rates in the U.S. are so high, recidivism can be helped with the right support in and out of the prison walls. “Positive behavior change and lower recidivism rates were found in prisoners with family support” (The Family 1). Recidivism is when a person relapses into criminal behavior often after the person receives sanctions or undergoes intervention for a previous crime. It is caused by an unstable lifestyle
Most prisoners are given what’s called “gate pay” upon their release, which is money (often under $100) they are given to find a place to live, a job, and transportation. (After Prison 1) Recidivism rates prove that returning to society after being incarcerated for any amount of time can be extremely difficult. Some studies show that the most efficient way to assist individuals starts before their release by preparing the prisoner while they are still on the inside through the use of therapy and classes. Some of the things they may teach include; critical thinking skills such as goal setting, making positive and constructive choices, and appropriate conflict resolution skills. Also, the prison may teach their inmates how to apply for things such as a social security card, driver's license, and jobs. (1) Therapy within the walls has also shown its effectiveness on released prisoners. Prisoners who attended therapy while incarcerated were less likely to return, in addition. released prisoners who attend therapy could have the same result. Many therapists within prisons use motivational works; they try things such as helping prisoners to see what others find in them as problem behaviors and how to fix those problems. With assistance in identifying these actions or behaviors, people are more prepared for understanding the issues to try to change them. Therapists also help to instill problem- solving skills. This will teach the inmates how to react to situations rather than reverting to their habitual behavior that got them in trouble in the first place. (McMahon, Aisling 1) By teaching prisoners to cope with difficult situations and helping them set goals, they gain an appreciation of right and wrong and set a higher standard for themselves. Before release, therapists may suggest a switch in the choice of who they associate with to avoid temptation to repeat criminal