A Phenomenological Study Examining the Effects of Restrictive Factors on Previously Incarcerated Individuals’ Chances of Recidivism

The purpose of this phenomenological study is to describe the effects of perpetual restrictions and stigmatization for previously incarcerated individual’s vulnerability and efforts to reduce recidivism in society. The theories guiding this study are Bandura’s (1986) social theory as it explains the relationship between the theory of self-efficacy and motivation, and Maslow’s (1954) hierarchy of needs accompanied by humanistic and existential theorists Viktor Frankl’s (1946) logotherapy and Carl Roger’s (1951) humanistic psychology as it emphasizes basic needs for human existence and success which are contradicted by hinderance of perpetual restrictions. Because of the mass stigmatization of people who have been convicted of past crimes, their perspectives of self have been altered and therefore contribute to false beliefs of self, self-worth, abilities to contribute and ultimately their future successes. This creates contradictions of the person establishing autonomy and agency to feel as though they are contributing or redeeming themselves post-release. This study allowed participants the opportunity to describe their individual experiences with the perpetual restrictions, stigma, and bias brought on by society which will be useful in describing the essence and rates of recidivism. Participants in this study were among all gender types, 21 and older, who have acquired a past conviction resulting in a prison stay of at least one year in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) system. Data was collected and analyzed from a sample size of eight participants through purposeful sampling and an in-depth structured interview. Participants were recruited through their parole or probation office, snowball emailing, and a social media post. Recommendations for future research was included to expand research.