RT Article
T1 The role of transformation narratives in desistance among released lifers
JF Criminal justice and behavior
VO 41
IS 6
SP 692
OP 712
A1 Liem, Marieke 1982-
A2 Richardson, Nicholas J.
LA English
YR 2014
UL https://krimdok.uni-tuebingen.de/Record/1885453817
AB Research on desistance emphasizes the importance of the transformation narrative, in which the individual has replaced his old, criminal self with a new, law-abiding self. Key elements of the transformation narrative are generative motivations, the core self, and a sense of agency. Thus far, it is not known what role these elements play in desistance among released lifers. To fill this caveat, we conducted in-depth life interviews with 67 individuals who had served a life sentence. Almost all interviewees presented a transformation narrative that included a good core self and generative motivations, including those who persisted in criminal behavior. We found that individual agency was a key factor distinguishing the paroled lifers from the re-incarcerated lifers. Findings suggest that rather than learning to present a transformation narrative focused on reflecting a good core self and generative motivations, (post-)prison programs should focus on restoring agency to ensure successful re-entry.
K1 Agency
K1 Desistance
K1 Life Imprisonment
K1 Lifers
K1 redemption script
K1 transformation narrative
DO 10.1177/0093854813515445