Recidivism in the U.S.

Recidivism rates seem to be on the rise in the United States. Jails and prisons are becoming overcrowded, leading to raise the question as far as why? Could it be because many offenders just can’t remain law-abiding? I think that many criminals choose to behave deviantly because that is the only thing they know. Many criminals become attached to the lifestyle of crime, which usually results in them being incarcerated. The thing about choosing to live a life of crime is the fact that it is affecting those surrounding the criminal. If someone is stealing cars, jewelry, etc. they are taking away from the owner and causing them pain. But once a person is incarcerated and released back into society they may reoffend, which is known as recidivism. I think that recidivism is on the rise mainly because you can see that through the overcrowding within the jails and prisons. Like I mentioned before, a person that becomes attached to the lifestyle of crime is essentially living a life of recidivism.

I think that recidivism can also say a lot more about punishment for criminals. Once a person is incarcerated they are known in the criminal justice system as an offender, therefore they will not be trusted as much if found committing another crime again. That can lead to a longer sentencing for the individual. I think that once a person goes into jail they experience something that they probably do not enjoy, and therefore won’t want to return. Also, long periods of incarceration discourage released offenders from committing additional crimes. I think that the idea behind longer sentencing for those who recidivate is crucial for the punishment regime in America. Keeping members of society protected is the number one goal, and punishing those who commit crime, especially recidivate, deserve to be punished harshly.