Lived Experiences of Repeat Crime Offenders: A Phenomenological Untold Stories

Abstract

Recidivism is an offense committed by an individual who at the time of the trial has been previously convicted by final judgment of another crime. The perspective motivates the researchers to explore the lived experiences and to discover the untold stories of repeat crime offenders which shed light on the informants’ experiences in the pillars of the criminal justice system, the impact of incarceration on the lives of the offender, and the reasons for reoffending. Qualitative research using a phenomenological approach was used through an in-depth individual face-to-face interview and focus group discussion with ten recidivists and inmates in selected city jails in Negros Occidental Philippines who are purposively qualified based on the inclusion criteria set by the researchers. Data was collected using the audiotape recorded interviews with the informants. The responses were transcribed from the interviews and analyzed to capture and describe the richness of the informants’ experiences. The findings revealed six major themes which emerged after the rigorous data explication. The Cry of the Suspect, Light within Darkness, You Reap what you Sow, Blessing in Disguise, Many are Bad Associates But Few are Good Mentors, and Corruption of the Mind. Key findings suggest: Firstly, to have a strong foundation, effective and efficient coordination and cooperation among the pillars of the criminal justice system. Secondly, establish a systematic, comprehensive, and sustainable rehabilitation program with strict and vibrant implementation, monitoring, and evaluation to ensure its success.