Citation

Baffour FD, Francis AP, Chong MD, Harris N, Baffour PD. Crim. Justice Rev. 2021; 46(3): 304-325.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Georgia State University Public and Urban Affairs, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/0734016820960785

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The article investigates ex-convicts' experiences of stigmatization and its effect on their well-being in selected prisons in Ghana. Qualitative data were collected from 20 male inmates who, after residing for a time in the community, were thereafter reincarcerated.

FINDINGS indicate that these men were subjected to stigmatization and degrading treatment in the community, which limited their chances of securing lawful employment, establishing romantic relationships, and even maintaining platonic and family ties. As a result, this negatively impacted upon their mental well-being, leading some to substance abuse and suicide ideation. The article thereafter discusses policy and future research implications that arise from these findings. © 2020 Georgia State University.

Language: en

Keywords

substance use; suicide ideation; stigmatization; ex-convicts; mental well-being