Recidivism, the tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend, is one of the many overlooked injustices within our criminal justice system. Recidivism is influenced by multiple factors, including systemic issues such as socioeconomic factors, inadequate rehabilitation, limited access to education, and more. However, many individuals also tend to reoffend due to mental health issues, many of which can be explained by psychology.

Psychological Causes

            To start, the Labeling Theory in psychology—which states that a person’s identity or behavior is influenced by the labels made for them by society—plays a large role in recidivism rates. Once society labels someone a criminal, it significantly hinders their ability to reintegrate into society, whether through employment, housing, education, or other means. When former inmates find rejection within these realms, they may continue to view themselves through a criminal lens. The psychological theory of the Self-Fulfilling Prophecy complements this idea. Once a person has been labelled a criminal, whether by themselves or by others, they may feel inclined to resort to criminal-like behaviors and internalize the associated beliefs. This internalization can create a negative self-perception and thoughts of low self-worth, leading people to act without considering consequences, therefore increasing reoffending rates.

            Many incarcerated individuals also tend to reoffend due to their treatment within prison itself. Prison is meant for rehabilitation; however, punishment is more commonly used rather than positive reinforcement. Operant Conditioning, created by B.F. Skinner, is a learning method where behaviors are reinforced by consequences, a.k.a. punishments.

            Once released from prison, individuals may lack the skills or mental capacity to behave “correctly” in their new environment, because prisons had reinforced their maladaptive behaviors. This may lead to the resurfacing of previous behaviors ingrained during prison.

            Similarly, the Social Learning Theory, designed by Albert Bandura, introduces the idea that people learn behaviors by observing others. In prisons, inmates are surrounded by others who display, and even encourage, criminal behaviors. Instead of rehabilitating, the environment can encourage recidivism within prison itself, making it difficult for an individual to leave the system in the first place.

Societal Causes

            Moving past learned behavior, unmet psychological, physical, and emotional needs also play a major role. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs informs us that before a person can focus on their morality and self-improvement, their basic needs (such as safety, shelter, and purpose) must be met. However, as previously stated, many incarcerated people face problems—such as homelessness, unemployment, and overall social rejection—which make it incredibly difficult to fulfill those basic needs. When someone, anyone, is hungry and/or hopeless, the need to survive can lead them back into crime, even if they’re not driven by negative intentions.

            Mental Health itself falls within the psychology behind recidivism, and can answer many questions. Many people in the criminal justice system live with untreated trauma, addiction, or depression. Prison often worsens these conditions, as prisoners are usually not provided with proper care. Without proper care during imprisonment, these psychological difficulties persist even after release, which can increase the likelihood of reoffending.

Solutions

            Despite all these factors contributing to recidivism, there are ways to lower reoffense rates and protect our society. Programs focused on psychology, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), have been used to reduce reoffending by helping former inmates recognize and change their previous harmful patterns. Restorative Justice programs also encourage individuals to take accountability and attempt to heal by reconnecting offenders with the communities they’ve harmed, attempting to create a more peaceful reintegration into society. Also, trauma-informed care recognizes that a large portion of those who commit crimes are themselves survivors of violence, neglect, and overall rough upbringings, shifting the focus from punishment to healing.

            Addressing these situations through policy is another action our society can take. Lawmakers should prioritize rehabilitation-focused legislation that integrates mental health services, education, and job training within correctional facilities. Making treatment, such as CBT and trauma-informed care, more accessible can help address the root causes of criminal behavior rather than solely what is caused by it. Policies that promote reentry support, such as fair-chance employment laws, affordable housing programs, and funding for community reintegration services, can help to reduce the stigma around released individuals.

Conclusion

            By utilizing the proper treatments and shifting policy from punishment to prevention and rehabilitation, the justice system can create long-term change. These shifts will benefit not only individuals, but also public safety and society as a whole.

References

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Cherry, K. (2024, February 12). Labeling theory: How being labeled as deviant affects behavior. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/labeling-theory.html

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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2019). Trauma-informed care in behavioral health services. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.samhsa.gov

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