PWG - Short sentence, big impact: A longitudinal study on people serving a short prison sentence and reentering society after release

• In Event: PWG - Reintegration: Perceptions, preparedness, and post-release outcomes

Abstract

In the Netherlands, over 70% of incarcerated individuals serve less than three months in prison, and 50% are released within one month. The number of individuals serving a short prison sentence is high compared to other European countries. Yet, previous research indicates that short-term imprisonment is not very effective; it leads to higher recidivism rates compared to community service and results in high societal costs. The high turnover of incarcerated individuals also puts pressure on prison staff, who already suffer from a heavy workload. Based on multiple interviews pre- and post-release with 38 men serving short sentences (1-3 months), we examine the experience of short-term imprisonment from a longitudinal perspective and show how and why it disrupts the life-course more so for some individuals than for others. In prison, men perceive the regime as austere, with very limited reintegration activities and little to no contact with professionals. As a result, existing problems accumulate and new problems arise. After release, men have to navigate through highly complex societal systems to ‘get things done’. Those with fewer pre-existing problems and greater self-governance ability seem better able to resettle into the community. However, the vast majority of men we spoke to are (very) vulnerable and lack skills and knowledge to navigate these systems effectively, which can be challenging, demotivating and hinder their reintegration efforts. While the negative impact of short-term imprisonment is substantial, attempts to assist people with re-integration are inadequate. Alternatives to short prison sentences should therefore be further explored.

Author

• Anouk den Besten, Leiden University