Recidivism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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recidivism
[rษชหsษชdษหvษชzษm ]
Definition
criminal behavior
Recidivism refers to the tendency of a previously incarcerated individual to relapse into criminal behavior, resulting in subsequent arrests, convictions, or imprisonments. This phenomenon poses significant challenges for the criminal justice system and society at large, as it raises questions about the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts. Various studies on recidivism aim to identify patterns and factors that contribute to repeat offenses, exploring aspects such as psychological issues, socio-economic status, and the environment post-release. Efforts to reduce recidivism often include educational programs, therapy, and support systems designed to aid reintegration into society.
Synonyms
relapse, reoffending, repeat offense.
Examples of usage
- The study focused on recidivism rates among parolees.
- Programs aimed at reducing recidivism have become a priority for policymakers.
- Understanding the causes of recidivism can help design better intervention strategies.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that people with mental health issues may have higher rates of recidivism due to underlying problems that arenโt addressed.
- Environmental factors, such as lack of support after leaving prison, can significantly influence someone's likelihood to reoffend.
Criminal Justice
- Recidivism rates vary widely depending on the type of crime; for instance, those convicted of drug offenses often have higher rates than those for property crimes.
- Programs focusing on rehabilitation, like education and job training, have been shown to lower recidivism rates.
Social Impact
- Communities with higher recidivism rates may face increased crime and safety concerns, leading to more investment in prevention and support programs.
- Families of individuals who return to criminal behavior often experience stress, affecting their emotional and financial well-being.
Statistics
- According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, about two-thirds of released prisoners are arrested for a new offense within three years.
- Some studies indicate that recidivism rates are lower for individuals who have stable employment after release.
Origin of 'recidivism'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'recidivus', meaning 'falling back' or 'to slip back'.
- It was first used in the 18th century, primarily in discussions about crime and punishment.
The term 'recidivism' is derived from the Latin word 'recidivus', which means 'to fall back'. It is composed of 're-', meaning 'back', and 'cadere', meaning 'to fall'. The concept has its roots in legal and psychological discussions around criminal behavior and rehabilitation, dating back to the 19th century when the criminal justice system began to emphasize not just punishment but also the potential for reform. This shift in focus led to greater interest in understanding why individuals reoffend after incarceration and how society can effectively reduce these occurrences. Over the years, studies on recidivism have influenced policies and practices within the justice system, leading to the development of various programs and initiatives aimed at reducing the likelihood of repeat offenses.