Perpetrators at First, Victims at Last: Exploring the Consequences of Stigmatization on Ex-Convicts’ Mental Well-Being

Abstract

The article investigates ex-convicts’ experiences of stigmatization and its effect on their well-being in selected prisons in Ghana. Qualitative data were collected from 20 male inmates who, after residing for a time in the community, were thereafter reincarcerated. Findings indicate that these men were subjected to stigmatization and degrading treatment in the community, which limited their chances of securing lawful employment, establishing romantic relationships, and even maintaining platonic and family ties. As a result, this negatively impacted upon their mental well-being, leading some to substance abuse and suicide ideation. The article thereafter discusses policy and future research implications that arise from these findings.

Criminal records and post-prison employment in Ghana: Formal and informal means of performing criminal background checks

“…Past studies conducted in Ghana have reported that formerly incarcerated individuals experience stigma in the community (Baffour, 2020(Baffour, , 2021Baffour et al, 2021). In the present study, employers stated that their association with an individual who is socially labelled as 'bad', due to their prior incarceration, is likely to be interpreted by the community as if they are 'condoning bad behaviour' (Maame Kramo, Maame Akua and Nana) or 'entertaining criminals' (Mr Kwao, Maame Afi, Mr Kwadwo, Sir Alfred, Mr Sarkodie).…”

“…In contrast, literature in African countries has thus far remained for the most part silent on the effects of criminal background checks on hiring decisions. However, some evidence exists suggesting that formerly incarcerated people, in particular, are discriminated against in securing legal employment due to their status (Baffour et al, 2021;Dako-Gyeke and Baffour, 2016;Mujuzi and Tsweledi, 2014;Wiafe, 2021). Mujuzi (2014) indicated that some constitutional provisions in South Africa impose limitations on individuals with criminal records to hold positions in the security sector or become financial advisors and disqualify those with traffic offence records from applying for or renewing their professional driver's licence.…”

“…In contrast, literature in African countries has thus far remained for the most part silent on the effects of criminal background checks on hiring decisions. However, some evidence exists suggesting that formerly incarcerated people, in particular, are discriminated against in securing legal employment due to their status (Baffour et al, 2021; Dako-Gyeke and Baffour, 2016; Mujuzi and Tsweledi, 2014; Wiafe, 2021).…”

The global rise of criminal background checks

“…For Africa, only Mujuzi (2015) reported that CBCs increased from 37,815 in 2007 to 51,622 in 2011 in Mauritius. Research in the reentry of former offenders in Ghana (Baffour et al, 2020) and South Africa (Pinard, 2010;van Zyl Smit, 2003) also briefly mentioned that requests for information on prior convictions are required for some jobs but provided no data on the evolution of this practice. Empiricalbased studies on the use of CBCs outside Western Europe and western Anglo-speaking countries regions are, thus far, lacking.…”

Existential isolation and well-being in justice-involved populations

“…It is probable, however, that this population is especially at-risk for experiences of EI. People who are justice involved often experience stigma about having a history of crime, and perceived stigma is associated with diminished psychological well-being ( Baffour et al, 2021 ), willingness to seek treatment for mental health ( Clement et al, 2015 ), and more self-reported interpersonal isolation ( Fekete et al, 2018 ). Conceptually, individuals experiencing stigma related to justice involvement may feel disconnected from their peers and be less likely to engage in behaviors to ameliorate feelings of EI because of concerns about stereotyping, negative judgments, or lack of empathy.…”