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Recidivism in the United States of America:
Where is or current system failing?
The United States has more individuals incarcerated per person than any other country. A fifteen state study conducted by the Bureau of Justice Statistics has found that over two-thirds of released prisoners were rearrested within three years. "The 1994 recidivism study estimated that within 3 years, 51.8% of prisoners released during the year were back in prison either because of a new crime for which they received another prison sentence, or because of a technical violation of their parole." (Bureau of Justice Statistics) The staggering number of recidivist in the United States clearly demonstrates that fact that in most jurisdictions our current correctional system is failing to meet the needs of the inmates and ultimately the needs of society.
Statistics show that many inmates upon release from prison are unable to integrate back into society and are ill-equipped to lead productive lives. While trying to cope with a low self esteem and a lack of sense of self worth many ex-convicts must attempt to reestablish ties with their families. Lack of a higher education in addition to having a criminal record can make it extremely difficult for the ex-convict to find employment. Upon release these individuals are also being placed back into the same environment. Several different studies have pointed to these factors playing a large part in the current rate of recidivism in the United States today. Programs are needed within our Criminal Justice System that address the causes of recidivism on a National level.
Where is or current system failing?
The United States has more individuals incarcerated per person than any other country. A fifteen state study conducted by the Bureau of Justice Statistics has found that over two-thirds of released prisoners were rearrested within three years. "The 1994 recidivism study estimated that within 3 years, 51.8% of prisoners released during the year were back in prison either because of a new crime for which they received another prison sentence, or because of a technical violation of their parole." (Bureau of Justice Statistics) The staggering number of recidivist in the United States clearly demonstrates that fact that in most jurisdictions our current correctional system is failing to meet the needs of the inmates and ultimately the needs of society.
Statistics show that many inmates upon release from prison are unable to integrate back into society and are ill-equipped to lead productive lives. While trying to cope with a low self esteem and a lack of sense of self worth many ex-convicts must attempt to reestablish ties with their families. Lack of a higher education in addition to having a criminal record can make it extremely difficult for the ex-convict to find employment. Upon release these individuals are also being placed back into the same environment. Several different studies have pointed to these factors playing a large part in the current rate of recidivism in the United States today. Programs are needed within our Criminal Justice System that address the causes of recidivism on a National level.