“I Am a Person Who Entered the Store Naked and Left with Clothes on”: The Rehabilitation Process in the Eyes of Young Rehabilitators

This study investigated the rehabilitation process of justice-involved youth in Shushan rehabilitation centers, marking the first evaluation of this program. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing in-depth semi-structured interviews with 18 male participants at various stages of rehabilitation. Results revealed three primary themes: the challenges of the rehabilitation process, participants’ perspectives on success, and how young individuals perceive the outcomes of the process. The study concludes that rehabilitation is a dynamic and multifaceted process that extends beyond the institutional setting. It underscores the importance of post-rehabilitation support systems, such as mentoring and employment assistance, in ensuring sustainable reintegration. The article offers practical suggestions for policymakers.