Negotiating challenges faced by homicide offenders upon their release from prison: a thematic analysis

Abstract

This study explored the perceptions of the challenges faced by homicide offenders (HOs) reintegrating into the community after prison. Through interviews with six HOs and 10 Probation Officers in the United Kingdom, three themes were identified in the thematic analysis: Transitioning from life in prison to a new world; societal stigma and media representations; and the psychological aspects of homicide. Reintegrating into a fast-paced society proved difficult for all HOs, who struggled to adapt, carry their licensing conditions, find identity and purpose, and cope with the fear of being recalled to prison. Stigma and negative media portrayal hindered their acceptance by society. Managing psychological factors and self-identity while addressing the gravity of taking a life may provide a sense of individual agency and prevent reoffending. These findings can inform policymakers and practitioners working with homicide offenders in the community.

Keywords:

• offender rehabilitation
• homicide offenders
• stigma
• recidivism

Acknowledgements

Thank you very much to all our participants during this study and to the University of Coventry pump prime funding scheme, as well as to Dr Aresti and Dr Khachatryan for their feedback on a draft.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes

1 ‘Sentences of Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPPs) were created by the Criminal Justice Act 2003 and started to be used in April 2005. They were designed to protect the public from serious offenders whose crimes did not merit a life sentence. IPPs lead to inconsistent sentencing.’ Ministry of Justice (n.d). IPP Factsheet. Retrieved from [06/03/2019]: https://www.justice.gov.uk/downloads/legislation/bills-acts/legal-aid-sentencing/ipp-factsheet.pdf.