EXAMINING FACTORS, PATTERNS AND TREATMENTS OF CRIMINAL RECIDIVISM IN CASE OF YIRGALEM CORRECTIONAL CENTER, SIDAMA NATIONAL REGIONAL STATE.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore factors and treatments of recidivism in yirgalem correctional center, Sidama National Regional State. The study was guided by a life course, differential association and labeling theoretical framework. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Census survey or complete enumeration was employed and entire recidivists (i.e. 114 respondents) were involved in the study. In-depth interviews were conducted with one female and four male recidivists. Also, key informant interviews were conducted with one prison official and three correction professionals (i.e. psychologist, legal officer and academic teacher) working at the correctional center. The data collected by quantitative method was analyzed using descriptive statistics like percentages, frequencies, bar charts, pie charts and cross-tabulation, and chi- square test analysis of inferential statistics. The data collected by the qualitative method was analyzed thematically. The findings suggested that most ex-offenders reoffended due to individual characteristics such as gender, age, occupation, marital status, monthly income, and drug abuse. Some others reoffend due to correctional institution related factors such as shortening of time spent in correctional center, and criminal peers and their influences. Likewise, stigmatization/social exclusion, unemployment, lack of economic support, housing problem and ex-criminal peers post release were identified as community related factors for recidivism. Also, crime against property (economic crime), particularly theft, was the most dominant crime type in the study area. Regarding prisoners’ treatments, the study pointed out ineffective rehabilitation and reformation activities due to unrealized treatment programs such as formal education, vocational training, counseling services, and also due to the existence of maltreatment. In conclusion, individual, correctional institution, community related factors were contributory for recidivism and ineffective prisoners’ treatments were substantial input for reoffending. Lastly the study recommended policy implications.