Life After Bars: A Narrative-Case Study of Ex-convicts

Abstract

In the Philippines, ex-convicts face severe hurdles during reintegration, including public stigma, restricted work opportunities, insufficient support, and discriminatory behaviors, all of which impede a smooth return to society. This qualitative narrative case study investigates the psychological, social, and economic aspects of ex-convicts’ lives after jail. The Life Course Perspective is used as the study’s theoretical framework, acknowledging the importance of personal, societal, and historical elements in individual development. Six successfully reintegrated participants, each with a minimum five-year prison sentence, constituted the basis for in-depth interviews conducted in a quiet and secure atmosphere using snowball sampling. The study sought to explore ex-convicts’ issues, coping methods, life realizations, and viable therapeutic programs. The findings highlight the numerous challenges, such as societal stigma, economic constraints, and disrupted social bonds. Coping methods, which include spiritual rehabilitation and emotional acceptance, emerge as critical components of the reintegration process. Life realizations become transforming forces, characterized by a dedication to positive change and social contributions, which is frequently motivated by familial support and a desire to protect loved ones. For effective reintegration, the study underlines the importance of public acceptance, tailored interventions, and support networks. It finds that addressing these issues, as well as encouraging familial stability, boosting community involvement, and engaging employers, are critical to reducing recidivism and facilitating long-term rehabilitation. Recommendations urge for coordinated efforts from families, communities, and businesses, emphasizing the importance of a complete strategy to assisting ex-convicts on their path to successful society reintegration.