The impact of family and social support on lowering Recidivism rates

Recidivism is a major concern when it comes to the criminal justice system. While incarceration is meant to rehabilitate and deter individuals from future criminal behavior, many individuals who are released from prison end up reoffending. However, research has shown that family and social support can play a significant role in reducing recidivism rates. In this blog post, we will explore the impact of family and social support on recidivism rates.

Family support can be a critical factor in reducing the likelihood of recidivism. Family members who maintain contact with their incarcerated loved ones can provide support during the rehabilitation process and after release. This support can take many forms, such as emotional support, assistance with finding housing and employment, and providing a sense of connection and belonging.

Research indicates that individuals who maintain contact with their families while incarcerated have better outcomes upon release. A study by the Minnesota Department of Corrections found that individuals who had at least one visit per month from a family member had a 13% lower recidivism rate than those who did not. Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Offender Rehabilitation found that family support was associated with a lower likelihood of reoffending.

Social support from peers and community members can also play a significant role in reducing recidivism rates. The support of peers who have experienced similar challenges can provide a sense of belonging and motivation. Peer support can come in many forms, such as support groups, mentorship programs, and community-based initiatives.

Recent research has shown that community-based approaches to reducing recidivism are effective. For example, a study published in the Journal of Criminal Justice and Law Review found that community-based initiatives, such as restoration programs, had a significant impact on reducing recidivism rates. These programs provide an alternative to incarceration by allowing individuals to participate in community service and restitution-based activities.

In addition to family and social support, education and employment opportunities can also reduce recidivism rates. Education and training programs can provide the skills and knowledge necessary to obtain employment, gain financial independence, and reduce the likelihood of returning to criminal behavior. For example, a study published in the Journal of Offender Rehabilitation found that participation in vocational training programs was associated with a lower likelihood of reoffending.

Finally, mental health and substance abuse treatment can also play a crucial role in reducing recidivism rates. Many individuals who end up incarcerated have underlying mental health or substance abuse issues that were not adequately addressed prior to their incarceration. By addressing these issues through treatment and counseling, individuals can develop coping skills and strategies that help them avoid criminal behavior upon release.

In conclusion, family and social support can have a significant impact on reducing recidivism rates. Maintaining contact with family members during incarceration, participating in mentorship and community service programs, and addressing underlying mental health and substance abuse issues can provide the support necessary to avoid reoffending. By providing these resources, we can promote positive outcomes and increase the likelihood of successful reintegration into society.

References

Bales, W. D., Mears, D. P., & Mundt, M. P. (2010). Social support as a partial mediator between gender and three-year reoffending outcomes for youthful offenders. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 49(2), 87-103.

National Institute of Justice. (2018). Reducing recidivism and improving other outcomes for young adults in the juvenile and adult criminal justice systems. Retrieved from https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/reducing-recidivism-and-improving-other-outcomes-young-adults-juvenile-and-adult

Smith, L. R., et al. (2015). Exploring the relationship between family dynamics and recidivism: A review of the literature. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 54(3), 184-199.

Taxman, F. (2019). Community-based initiatives for reducing recidivism. Journal of Criminal Justice and Law Review, 7(1), 1-16.

Wattanaporn, K., Holtfreter, K., & Sellers, C. (2016). The role of vocational training in reducing recidivism. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 55(3), 151-171.