A phenomenological study on recidivism :

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to understand what shaped the experience of Persona Deprived of Liberty with history of recidivism. It seeks to understand the context that has shaped their experience of recidivism and how they make sense of it. The study was carried out to provide input to the Therapeutic Community Modality Program(TCMP) of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, the research includes ten (10)male participants with history of recidivism and drug case in similar offense. It was discovered that recidivism is not just a result of structural and economic problems, but a deeper psychological experience. The analysis of the data yielded four super ordinate themes that reflect the participants' experiences and the processes through which the construct meaning from recidivism and incarceration. The first super ordinate theme, Structural and Social Barriers to Successful Reintegration, includes the subthemes post-release economic strain and perceived system injustice, highlighting the external constraints that hinder reintegration. The second super ordinate theme , Fractured Relationships, Stigma, and the Need to Belong,captures the relation and social challenges faced by participants, with subthemes feelings of and stigma and peer influence and social belonging. Two additional supperordinate themes emerged that reflect the lived experiences of participants during incarceration and recidivism. Confinement as a Space of Psychological struggle encompasses five interrelated subthemes: interal conflict between agency and impulse, psychological burden of isolation longing, stagnation of life, and diminished sense of readiness for reintegration. lastly, coping through Adaptive and Avoidant three subthemes: emotional and spiritual coping, meaning-focused, and emotional detachment.Together, these themes illustrate the complex interplay of structural, relational, psychological, and coping dimension that shape that shape the participants' experiences of incarceration and recidivism.In conclusion, recidivism is understood not just as a behavioral repetition but as phenomenon existing within the context of realities.