Social factors contributing to recidivism among discharged prisoners: a case study of Mukobeko Maximum correctional facility in Kabwe district, Central Province of Zambia.

Abstract

Recidivism cuts across in most nations in the world with its negative consequences on individuals, social and economic spheres of life. Despite various intervention strategies, the rate of recidivism has been on the increase. The present study was designed to determine social factors contributing to recidivism among discharged prisoners at Mukobeko Maximum Correctional Facility. The study adopted a qualitative research method, using the descriptive survey research design. The sample for the study consisted of one hundred respondents, consisting of sixty five recidivists and thirty five correctional officers from Mukobeko Maximum Correctional Facility, in Kabwe. The sampling technique that was used in the study was purposive sampling. Primary data was obtained from the participants using three major instruments namely; Self Administered Questionnaire, Male Recidivist Personal Data Questionnaire (MRPDQ) and interview guide for prisoners with very low literacy level. On the other hand, secondary data was obtained from text books, Journals and other publications. The study revealed that there are social factors contributing to recidivism among discharged prisoners at Mukobeko Maximum Security Correctional Facility. Despite various intervention strategies, the rate of recidivism has been on the increase. The study also revealed that there were several obstacles which inhibit re-entry of prisoners back into society. Further, the study highlighted the importance of the family and society in re-integrating discharged prisoners. Based on the findings of this study, it was recommended that the correctional authorities should prepare the prisoners and their families for re-entry. Therefore the families of prisoners and the communities they return to should be ready to help inmates become reintegrated with a view to preventing recidivism.