JOURNEY FROM IMPRISONMENT TO REFORMATION OF PERSONS DEPRIVED OF LIBERTY: A MULTI-CASE STUDY

Kirstie Amor V. Cruda, Nestor C. Nabe

Abstract


This multi-case study investigated the lived experiences of transformation of the seven PDLs assigned at the Davao Prison and Penal Farm. Frequent, in-depth interviews chronicled participants' distinctive paths and formative experiences as they sought personal transformation while in prison. Four main themes were found through the analysis: lived experiences, personal difficulties, ways of coping, and significant insight. Participants described not being able to drink their worries away, of feeling sad, and that they could not move as they wished. In reaction, they utilized a variety of coping strategies, including coming to terms with their circumstances, praying, participating in leisure activities, abiding by the inner rules of the prison, engaging in rehabilitation activities, and enhancing their spiritual life. Over time, they came to important realizations: learning to accept their reality, using their time more purposefully, obeying the law, avoiding conflict, and showing respect to those around them. These realizations became instrumental in their ongoing reformation. The study underscored how deeply personal and multifaceted the rehabilitation process is within correctional environments. It called attention to the need for supportive, reform-focused settings that foster emotional strength, discipline, and moral growth. Ultimately, the findings offered meaningful insights into how incarceration can become a turning point for positive change—and how prison systems can better support that transformation.

 

SDG Indicator: 16 (Justice, Peace, and Strong Institutions)

 

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Keywords


persons deprived of liberty, reformation, coping mechanisms, rehabilitation, personal transformation

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejsss.v11i2.1982

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