The Impact of Faith-Based Rehabilitation in Prisons: Identity Transformation, Virtue Development, and Emotional–Behavioral Outcomes

This study examines the impact of a faith-based rehabilitation program on male incarcerated persons in Pakistan, focusing on religiosity, identity transformation, meaning in life, virtue development, and emotional–behavioral outcomes. A quasi-experimental design ( n = 127) using pretest and posttest data was analyzed through structural equation modeling. Results revealed that program graduates exhibited significantly higher religiosity, which later positively influenced identity transformation, meaning in life, and virtue development. Although nonsignificant effects were observed for depression or anxiety, several constructs (e.g., emotional transformation, self-regulation, compassion, accountability) were associated with reduced aggression. The findings highlight the potential of faith-based programs in promoting personal growth and moral reform, though supplementary interventions may be necessary to reduce emotional issues. This study underscores the need for comprehensive rehabilitation frameworks that incorporate religious engagement alongside evidence-based psychological supports such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, and stress reduction programs.