Perceptions of first time child offenders regarding their adjustment to a correctional environment

Abstract

The impact of incarceration on offenders’ psychological well-being and functioning can be detrimental. Literature on incarceration identifies significant stressors such as loss of freedom, homesickness, isolation, and exposure to intimidation. Child offenders have been described as particularly vulnerable to the impact of incarceration on their well-being and functioning. This study aimed at exploring and describing first-time child offenders’ perceptions of adjustment in a correctional environment. The transactional model of stress and coping and lifestyle exposure model of offending within the correctional environment served as the theoretical lens, guiding the understanding behind the participants’ perceptions and the subsequent impacting factors. A qualitative research approach with a multiple case study design was used to gain a deeper understanding of these child offenders’ perceptions of adjustment in a correctional environment. Eight participants were obtained through the purposive sampling method, and individual semi-structured interviews were conducted, including a focus group with four of the participants. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data, concurrently with the hybrid approach of inductive and deductive coding and theme development. Findings indicated three prominent main themes, namely (i) contributing factors to maladjustment, (ii) protective factors to success in adjusting, and (iii) child offenders’ adjustment strategies. Previous perceptions of life in incarceration, deprivations of incarceration, and the correctional centre's perceived legitimacy appeared to contribute towards the child offenders’ maladjustment. Rehabilitation and emotional support, however, aided in adjustment. Lastly, child offenders employed strategies such as self-discipline and seeking social support.