Prisons and the Creation of Criminals: An Analysis
The notion that prisons create more criminals is a topic of debate often discussed in legal and socio-economic circles. However, the reality is more nuanced. While prison systems often fail to provide meaningful education and skills training, they do allow for an environment where inmates can form connections and access certain services.
Prison Systems and Their Practices
The prison system, at its core, is designed to serve a sentences handed down by the court. However, many prison systems worldwide, including the United States, are criticized for their approach to inmates. These systems often lack programs that are truly beneficial to the inmates, instead focusing on superficial initiatives designed to meet administrative or political requirements.
Wasted Opportunities for Skill Development
One of the primary arguments against the claim that prisons create more criminals centers around the notion that prison can offer an opportunity for skill development. For instance, some inmates might learn trades or receive education that could help them reintegrate into society upon release. However, the quality and availability of such programs are often lacking. Many prisons offer programs that are more about fulfilling bureaucratic quotas than providing genuine assistance. As a result, inmates continue to lack the skills necessary for successful reintegration into society.
Case Studies and Examples
A notable example to illustrate this point is the experience of a prison where inmates were tasked with checking mail bags for forgotten letters. This task didn't teach them any valuable skills and simply allowed the prison to make some money. Similarly, another prison charged the government for a six-month computer training program but provided virtually no actual instruction. The instructor never showed up, and when the exam was given, the inmates were given the answers. The prison then collected money for a program that did not exist in actuality. Such cases highlight the broader issue of prisons not truly investing in their inmates' futures.
The Systems and Their Impact
The US prison system, in particular, has faced criticism for its lack of effective rehabilitation programs. Instead of focusing on helping inmates become productive members of society, these systems often prioritize external appearances and funding. Programs like the ones mentioned above, although seemingly beneficial, are often fraudulent and serve no real purpose.
Recidivism and the Real Issue
While prison systems fail to create more criminals, they do play a significant role in increasing recidivism through their inadequate support systems. Recidivism refers to the rate at which individuals return to criminal behavior after being released from prison. Without the necessary skills and support to reintegrate into society, many former inmates find themselves returning to their old behaviors and winding up back in prison.
Addressing the Root Causes
To truly reduce the rate of recidivism, prison systems need to focus on providing comprehensive education and training programs. These programs should be practical, meaningful, and designed to help inmates acquire skills that will serve them well after release. Additionally, addressing factors such as financial support from the government and family support can play a crucial role in reducing recidivism rates.
Conclusion
The creation of more criminals is not a direct result of prisons; rather, it is a symptom of the broader societal and systemic issues that prevent effective rehabilitation and reintegration. While prison systems can provide environments where inmates can learn new skills, the failure to implement genuine and beneficial programs means that the vast majority of inmates still lack the tools necessary for a successful return to society. Addressing these issues is crucial for reducing crime rates and improving the lives of former inmates.