Exploring the Lived Experiences of Becoming a Christian: A Study of Formerly Imprisoned Men in the United Kingdom

Abstract

The current study aims to contribute to the existing literature regarding religious conversion and desistance from crime by exploring the lived experiences and views of former perpetrators of crime who converted to Christianity. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven men residing in the United Kingdom who have previously engaged in offending behaviors. Using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis, three superordinate themes were identified relating to: “The Evolution of Faith;” “Divine Intervention;” and “It’s Not Always That Simple.” The findings are discussed in relation to the existing literature in religious conversion and desistance. Recommendations are made with respect to further research and practice.