THE ROLE OF REHABILITATION PROGRAMMES IN CURBING RECIDIVISM IN ZIMBABWE PRISONS: A COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPY PERSPECTIVE.

Author's Name: Itayi Samanyanga
Subject Area: Social Science and Humanities
Subject Other
Section Research Paper

Keyword:

Correctional Counselling, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Recidivism, Rehabilitation, Offenders


Abstract

The research study explores the role of rehabilitation programmes in curbing recidivism in Zimbabwe prisons. The purpose of the study was to examine the application of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) in empowering prison inmates to adopt positive attitudinal and behavioural changes to reduce recidivism in Zimbabwe prisons. The researcher used the Cognitive Behaviour Therapy to address cognitions, attitudes and beliefs of offenders. Twenty respondents composed of ten prison officers and ten ex-offenders were purposively selected through snow balling technique to participate in the study. The researcher used the interview schedule and questionnaire to collect data. The study recommends that the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services should employ specially trained officers and or equip prison officers with rehabilitation and correctional skills through staff development courses and in-service training in order to manage the needs of offenders under rehabilitation treatment programmes. The Cognitive Behaviour Therapy is not fully applied in Zimbabwe prisons rehabilitation programmes hence the need for specialist services.

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