Recidivism

The Causes and Effects of Recidivism

Introduction

To begin with, recidivism is defined as relapsing back into criminal behavior. In fact, recidivism is used as a measurement of the rate at which offenders commit other crimes, usually after being released from imprisonment. Many people say that prison is a revolving door. Meaning that those that leave are soon to return. It’s sad to say that statement has a lot of veracity to it.

Causes of Recidivism

Recidivism is caused by various things, or lack thereof. No job training skills makes it hard to gain employment. Most establishments are searching for applicants with experience. A criminal background already hinders the hiring process, so having no job training and being a convicted criminal

Returning back to a life of crime has many negative results. Being a recidivist can cost you your freedom and even worse, it can cost you your life. One being that you can get killed living that type of lifestyle. Criminals are often put in life threating situations because drug dealers seem to be at high risk to get robbed. Burglars and armed robbers put their lives on line on a daily basis just to try and make ends meet. With that being said, ask yourself is it really worth it. If you are a parent you have to consider the effect your incarceration will have on your kids and their development. Not to mention, what parent would want to be away from their children for long periods of

Prisons now require every inmate whom doesn’t have a high school diploma or a GED, to enroll in a GED program and complete it. Once the inmate has completed the GED program they can pursue other educational advancements such as college courses or vocational classes. The vocational classes usually offers training in Masonry, Culinary Arts, Welding, and Electrical Wiring among many other professions. Inmates whom attend special rehabilitation programs and maintain good behavior are rewarded levels. Upon entering the prison, an inmate is considered a level one inmate. Every six months the inmate will come up for a custody review in which his behavior and achievements will be evaluated and a decision will be made on his behalf regarding moving up a level. Once an inmate reaches level three, they are rewarded the option to work at a public place of employment and receive job skills and earn money. The federal government has also tried to address the recidivism crisis. In 2008, George W. Bush signed the bipartisan Second Chance Act into law, providing millions of dollars for states, local governments, and nonprofits to help ex-cons get on their feet. (Voorhees, J.