Getting Out of Prison

Why do many released prisoners end up right behind prison walls again? For one, the social and economic conditions that led them to a life of crime have probably not changed. Despite efforts to 'correct' an inmate, many former convicts come out of prison still uneducated, unemployed, and addicted to drugs. Being estranged from family and friends, not participating in general society, living amongst dangerous criminals, and adapting to the capricious nature of prison typically does nothing to improve or 'correct' an inmate's character or behavior. In fact, it is often said that whereas a criminal may enter prison with a 'Bachelors in crime', he or she is likely to come out of prison with a 'Masters in crime.'

In addition, upon release from prison, former inmates may be forced to rejoin the same vicious neighborhood that initially prompted their illegal actions. Some ex-convicts may even have to prove their 'street credibility' is still intact by consuming certain drugs or being sexually aggressive with women. If they try to direct their lives in a more positive route, they may subsequently become a victim of gang violence. Upon returning home, some former inmates may also discover their home life is torn and disrupted.

Oftentimes, the wife of the prisoner suffers from what is known as 'doing time on the outside.' These unfortunate women must face the constant shame and stigma of being married to an incarcerated spouse, along with the incessant calls made by their locked-up, jealous hubby intent on 'monitoring' their behavior. Furthermore, just visiting their spouse in prison entails suffering strip searches and other invasions of privacy. To alleviate some of these problems, several States in the US have initiated support groups designated to aid the families of an inmate with adapting to the loneliness and despair. Some not only allow weekly family visitation, but they sponsor monthly 'potlock' dinners where wives may meet and speak with one another for support.

Former inmates may also discover that 'going straight' is economically impossible. Many employers are extremely reluctant to hire any man or woman who has served time behind bars. Although a criminal record doesn't automatically remove the chance of employment, why would an employer risk hiring an ex-con when other, more suitable options are available? Furthermore, if a former convict lies about his or her prison experience, and is eventually discovered, they will immediately be terminated.

As is evident, getting out of prison isn't necessarily a great experience. Indeed, it is nice to receive one's freedom again. However, how is one to maintain in a brutal and ruthless world insensitive to their needs? I cannot answer this question. I hope, at least, that I have shown the world some of the difficulties that an ex-con must handle when trying to acclimate to the world. If you are an ex-con who has just reentered into society, then I wish you the best of luck.