Life After Prison: A Phenomenological Study on the Lived Experiences of Released Inmates

Abstract

This is a phenomenological study of the lived experiences of released inmates from the time they are convicted and incarcerated up to the time they are liberated. Phenomenological interviewing was used in data gathering to describe the meaning of the phenomenon. In-depth interviews were conducted to arrive at the three phases of data collection needed in the study. The study seeks answers to the following questions: What are the positive experiences of the informants on the rehabilitation programs, what are the negative experiences of the informants on the rehabilitation programs, and what is the impact of the rehabilitation programs on the informants after release from jail facility? Results revealed that three themes came up in the positive experiences of the informants on the rehabilitation program which are: Pious Acts: A Route to Direction, Concept, and Behavioural Change; Proficiency and Capability: A Subsistence to Live; and lastly, Education Knows No Boundaries. The released inmates were exposed more to religious programs, including educational programs. The negative experiences of the informants in the rehabilitation program are Humanity: A Setting of Great Sprain and Struggle: Longing for the Family. On the impact of the rehabilitation programs on the informants after release from a jail facility, two (2) themes emerged: Programs: A Treatment, Transition, and Avoidance of Recidivism and Falling: A Striking Relationship Impact of Re-Entry.