Some cognitive transformations about the dynamics of desistance

Abstract

This article explores the role of cognitive transformations in the process of desistance from crime. Based on our own and others’ subsequent research, clearly, some aspects of our initial theorizing warrant revisiting and adjustment. The discussion describes changes to ideas about the sequencing of various types of cognitive shifts, suggests the importance of emotional processes in tandem with changes in perspective, and highlights the need to move out of the comfort zone of crime itself when thinking about redefinitions that support desistance. Yet, a consistent notion remains that social and broader structural factors are deeply implicated—directly and indirectly—in all aspects of the change process. This includes the important area of “derailments” from a pattern of forward progress, where additional processual research is needed. The discussion concludes with the argument that individualistic policies and programs centered on cognitive deficits requiring correction are likely to be limited in their effectiveness.

Narrative Resilience Among Formerly Incarcerated Mothers

“…Rather, through narratives of strength and perseverance, they incorporated past substance use, trauma, and criminal legal contact into their current narratives as mothers in reentry. Whereas “redefinitions” (of crime as well as identity) are no doubt important in individuals’ desistance processes (Giordano, 2022; Stone, 2016), our findings thus underscore the significance of reconciliations as system-impacted women reflect on the different dimensions of their own histories and identities.…”

Predicting Future Recidivism From Changes in School Grades and Moral Agency

“…Environmental change (marriage or job) encourages desistance by creating routine activities (time spent with spouse or on job) incompatible with crime (Laub & Sampson, 2003) and reinforcement contingencies that support prosocial behavior (Chancellor et al, 2018). Competency building, on the other hand, facilitates desistance by providing the individual with the skills necessary to alter their self-view, change their behavior, and achieve success in conventional society (Giordano, 2022). From the perspective of social-cognitive-developmental theory, a turning point is an event or experience that changes the person’s environment, builds competencies, or both.…”

Getting traction on positive youth justice: Prosocial identity as a promising target for intervention.

“…In keeping with the empirical results summarized above, some criminological theories emphasize the role of prosocial identity in promoting desistance from crime. Although dominant theories of desistance heavily emphasize the role of external forces like social control (e.g., Laub & Sampson, 2003; Sampson & Laub, 1997), some alternative theories focus on shifts in identity as the primary—if not sufficient—cause of desistance (Bushway & Paternoster, 2013; Giordano, 2022; Giordano et al, 2002; LeBel et al, 2008; Maruna, 2001). According to these theories, exposure to prosocial environmental opportunities is critical—but there must be an intentional and subjective change in how one views oneself and crime, before one will actively seek and utilize those opportunities to transition to a noncriminal life.…”