The Reality of Recidivism: Are Former Criminals Ever Really Reformed?

Is it possible for former criminals to truly turn their lives around and stay away from crime? The truth is that while it's possible but extremely unlikely, reformed criminals do exist. According to various studies, recidivism rates range from 61% to 73%, making the struggle for reintegration a daunting yet essential challenge.

Criminals vs. Law Abiding Citizens: Differences in Behavior

When it comes to observing behavior, criminals and law-abiding citizens are driven by different instincts. Observing a collapsed individual on the street illustrates these differences:

Law-Abiding Citizen: Their instinct is to help. They might call for emergency services, provide basic first aid, or ensure the individual's safety.

Criminal: Their first thought is to avoid being seen by witnesses and focus on personal gain, like stealing valuables from the person.

These behaviors are rooted in the mindset of criminals, which is often characterized by envy, laziness, and a desire for quick, easy profits. For many, a "day job" is seen as work for someone else, while committing crimes gives them the illusion of autonomous control over their lives.

A Personal Reflection on Being Reformed

One of my grandfathers, who was a police officer, once told me, "We don't usually catch the smart ones." This statement struck a chord with me and influenced my decision to turn my life around. Despite being caught twice for carrying a concealed weapon and once for trafficking, I managed to beat the charges and began a new chapter.

My journey to becoming a reformed individual was long and arduous. There were no shortcuts, no more lies, cheating, criminality, or cutting corners. I transformed into a productive member of society, becoming a tax-paying citizen who invested and worked hard for everything I achieved. After years of hard work and financial discipline, I managed to retire as a wealthy man, having earned every penny legally.

Despite my success, even now, walking past a jewelry store, furrier, or a bank makes me look for cameras, not out of guilt, but as a lingering manifestation of the old "criminal instincts" that have been deeply ingrained in me.

Understanding the Criminal Mind

Deviant behavior is often a result of learned and reinforced patterns rather than a "criminal mindset" recognized in psychology. People do not constantly think about committing theft or other crimes. The stereotypical street walker does not dedicate their day to planning to steal your wallet.

However, the concept of committing crime for survival is a myth, especially in a country like the United States, where the post-prison life does not significantly improve, and the claim of rehabilitation can be considered a form of deception. The harsh reality for many ex-offenders is that they face significant challenges in reintegrating into society and securing stable employment.

Rehabilitation remains a complex and ongoing process for many, with persistent factors such as lack of stable employment, social stigma, and the need for ongoing support systems.

Conclusion

The reality of reformed individuals is often a mix of success and continuous challenges. While it is possible, the journey is fraught with obstacles and requires immense effort, determination, and support. Understanding the depth of criminal behavior and the complexities of rehabilitation is crucial for creating policies and support systems that can help former criminals succeed in society.