Abstract
The dilemma of high incarceration rates is a long-standing, global concern plaguing even the most developed and affluent societies of the world. Concomitant to high incarceration rates is the problem of recidivism. Recidivism is strongly linked to the effectiveness and influence of a prison system’s rehabilitative and reintegration programs. South Africa is counted among countries with the highest recidivism rates in the world. It is against this backdrop that this study aimed to explore male ex-offenders’ experiences of community-based reintegration programs in Gauteng. The objective was to provide an understanding of the role played by community-based reintegration programs in the reduction of recidivism. Interviews were conducted with 4 male ex-offenders based in Gauteng. The study found that participants faced various challenges to their reintegration process, which were addressed in some form by resources and support provided by a community-based reintegration program in which they were involved. These programs played a pivotal role in facilitating reintegration into society as law-abiding citizens. The findings showed that despite the effectiveness of community-based reintegration programs in successful ex-offender reintegration, such programs are severely scarce in Gauteng. Hence, most ex-offenders do not have access to post-incarceration supports. This contributes to an increased recidivism rate. Word count: 199 Keywords: incarceration; reintegration; recidivism; re-offending; re-entry; rehabilitation; desistance.
M.A. (Counselling Psychology)