Recidivism causes and prevention

Recidivism has many potential causes, including social interactions during incarceration, lack of employment and economic opportunity, depression, lack of reintegration into society, an unchanging lifestyle and social circle upon release, and the underlying problems causing crime not being treated during incarceration ...

What is the most effective method for preventing recidivism?

Even very basic education, like adult literacy and basic skills, can significantly reduce the rate of recidivism. Allowing inmates to finish their high school diplomas, learn a trade and technical skills, and pursue post-secondary educational opportunities while incarcerated can greatly reduce recidivism as well.

What are some factors of recidivism?

Across conditions, the three factors that were most consistently associated with recidivism were criminal history, age at discharge, and geographic environment.

What is the biggest factor in recidivism?

Recidivism rates are primarily affected by the lack of employment opportunities for ex-convicts. Another reason for the large number of repeat offenders is that many ex-criminals return to crime-ridden environments, where they are subject to more pressure than they can bear.

What is the root of recidivism?

The word recidivism comes from the Latin root words re, meaning "back," and cadere, meaning "to fall" — or literally "to fall back." The word is most commonly used to discuss the relapse rate of criminals, who have served their sentence and have been released. However, it can be used for any relapse in behavior.