Convict Therapy - The Rehabilitation of Convicts by Peers: Characteristics, Strengths and Challenges

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

Researchers in the field of crime desistance have recently focused on the strengths-based role of the wounded healer, as exemplified by ex-convicts who avoid from crime and recover through the professional practice of rehabilitating other convicts. Studies conducted in this field suggest that generative activities (e.g., volunteering, peer-mentoring, and rehabilitation work) contribute to the personal rehabilitation efforts of ex-convicts. Adopting the new identity of the “wounded healer”, i.e., someone who has suffered personal hardships and leverages their experiences to guide and help others in a similar situation, provides ex-convicts with opportunities for external validation of their rehabilitation efforts, and to develop a positive self-identity – a key component in reintegration process. The purpose of the present paper is to review current research conducted on peer-to-peer programs as implemented in prisons in various countries, while highlighting their inherent benefits, obstacles, and limitations. This is in an effort to enrich and promote the discourse, research, and practice of this evolving field, and to offer new research directions for examining the effectiveness and validity of peer-based programs in the long run.

Key Words: wounded healer, peer-mentoring, convict criminology, positive criminology, crime desistance, rehabilitation.

Author

• Ety Elisha, The Max Stern Yezreel Vallety College