THE LEVEL OF ACCEPTANCE OF THE COMMUNITY TOWARDS THE

REINTEGRATION OF AN EX-CONVICT

DAVOUN WEGAN MONTERON ABABA

ELENA CAMPOREDONDO AYUNTING
MAE JANE GUMAHAD LANGAM

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CRIMINOLOGY

(LAW ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION)
 MARCH 2022
THE LEVEL OF ACCEPTANCE OF THE COMMUNITY TOWARDS THE

REINTEGRATION OF AN EX-CONVICT

An Undergraduate Thesis Proposal

presented to

the Faculty of the Criminology Department

Christ the King College de Maranding, Inc.

Maranding, Lala, Lanao del Norte, Philippines

of the Requirements for the Degree

Bachelor of Science in Criminology

(Law Enforcement Administration)

By

DAVOUN WEGAN MONTERON ABABA

ELENA CAMPOREDONDO AYUNTING

MAE JANE GUMAHAD LANGAM

March 2022

ii
 Christ the King College de Maranding,
Inc.
Maranding, Lala, Lanao del Norte 9211 PHILIPPINES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

APPROVAL SHEET

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Bachelor of Science

in, Criminology major in Law Enforcement Administration undergraduate thesis
entitled “THE LEVEL OF ACCEPTANCE OF THE COMMUNITY TOWARDS
THE REINTEGRATION OF AN EX-CONVICT” prepared and submitted by
Davoun Wegan M. Ababa, Elena C. Ayunting and Mae Jane G. Langam has
been examined and is recommended for acceptance and approval for oral
examinations.

NIKKI PAULETTE DE GUIA

Adviser

Approved in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Bachelor

of Science in Criminology major in Law Enforcement Administration with a grade
of __________.
PANEL OF EXAMINERS

MARIA ESPERANZA S. MACASARTE, PhD

Chairman

SR. MA. HAZEL A. MEJORADA, MSOLTC JENNILYN B. OBENA, MSCRIM

Member Member
________________________________________________________________

Accepted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Bachelor

of Science in Criminology major in Law Enforcement Administration.

JENNILYN B. OBENA, RCrim, MSCrim

Dean, College of Criminology
 ii

DEDICATION

This intellectual piece of work is dedicated to

their loving parents,

for their boundless support, emotionally, financially, and spiritually;

their loved ones,

for their stable inspiration and hope for them to become prosperous; and

to

the Almighty God, for the wisdom He has bestowed upon them.

All thanks be to Him.

DWMA

ECA

MJGL
 iii

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The researchers express their gratitude and appreciation to the following

persons who helped much to the success of this study:

To their adviser, Nikki Paulette B. De Guia, MSCJ, for the suggestions,

support, and supervision to make this study successful;

To their Panel of Experts, Maria Esperanza S. Macasarte, PhD, Jennilyn

B. Obena, RCrim, MSCrim , and Sr. Ma. Hazel A. Mejorada, MSoltc for their

developmental suggestions and inputs for the development of this research;

To the Criminoloy teachers, at Christ the King College de Maranding, for

their efforts for the content validation of the test;

To their parents, words cannot express how much they mean to them for

being always there to serve and understand the educational and financial needs;

To GOD, for the peace, joy, and glory showered upon them; and

To all of you, thank so much!

DWMA

ECA

MJGL

iv
 ABSTRACT

Title: THE LEVEL OF ACCEPTANCE OF THE COMMUNITY TOWARDS THE

REINTEGRATION OF AN EX-CONVICT

No. of Pages -
Researchers - DAVOUN WEGAN MONTERON ABABA
ELENA CAMPOREDONDO AYUNTING
MAE JANE GUMAHAD LANGAM
School - Christ the King College de Maranding, Inc
Maranding, Lala, Lanao del Norte
Degree - Bachelor of Science in Criminology
Year Completed - 2023
Keywords - acceptance, community, reintegration, ex-convict

DWMA

ECA

MJGL

v
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

TITLE PAGE i

APPROVAL SHEET ii

DEDICATION iii

ACKNOWLEDGMENT iv

ABSTRACT v

TABLE OF CONTENTS vi

LIST OF TABLES x

LIST OF FIGURES xi

CHAPTER

1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

Introduction 1

Theoretical Framework 5

Conceptual Framework 8

Statement of the Problem 11

Hypotheses 12

Scope and Delimitation 12

Significance of the Study 13

Definition of Terms 15

vi
2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Related Literatures 17

Related Studies 35

Insights Learned from the Related Literatures

and Studies 49

3 RESEARCH METHODS

Research Design 52

Research Environment 52

Respondents 55

Research Instruments and its Validity 55

Data Gathering Procedures 56

Statistical Treatment 57

vii
 Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

Introduction

Stigmatization after release is the most difficult part of the prison system.

Minorities face a tough time reintegrating back into society, especially in the

workplace, because of the stigma they face. Today, ex-convicts face a common

problem: social stigma. Because of the labels they have been given, they are

unable to modify their ways for the better. To put it another way, the negative

connotations associated with being an ex-convict make it difficult for individuals

to embrace a positive transformation in their lives. These kinds of incidents are

likely to lead to social marginalization. Ex-convicts will have a difficult time

adjusting to life outside of prison. As long as they wear the label "ex-convict,"

they will be shunned by society (Visher & Travis, 2003).

When meeting an ex-convict for the first time, it is common for people to

assume that they are dangerous or violent, but they should remember the true

meaning of imprisonment. According to Giddens (1997), a correctional facility is a

place where offenders can be rehabilitated so that they can return to society and

play an active role (as cited in Nsanze, 2007). People's attitudes toward a

formerly incarcerated person may be altered as a result of learning this

information. Since their release from prison, several ex-convicts have said that
they have been subjected to constant isolation (Nsanze, 2007). There are

several obstacles, from reuniting with loved ones to finding work.

Furthermore, the longer their term, the less probable it is that an ex-convict

like them will be accepted and welcomed back into society. To put it another way,

they deteriorate and eventually become ineffective (Pager & Manza, 2004). Re-

incarceration is also a major concern for ex-convicts, according to Newman

(2010). It is very likely that ex-convicts will reoffend because of the severe

marginalization and lack of acceptability they encounter in society. Even if there

are perks, programs, and assistance available to ex-offenders, none of this

actually accomplishes anything (Digal, 2011). The researchers' goal is to alter

Filipinos' preconceived notions regarding formerly incarcerated individuals.

Discrimination against and marginalization of ex-offenders are commonplace.

Their schooling and work opportunities are harmed, and they may even feel cut

off from their own families. They are also subjected to unjustified judgments from

the rest of society.

For ex-convicts, social rejection can be frustrating and difficult to deal with.

According to Ronquillo (2011), most inmates get estranged from their loved ones

and refuse to leave jail since they have no one to return home to, according to

the author. This makes personal reform for an ex-convict difficult and a difficult

effort that is not always effective because of a lack of chances and poverty. Ex-

convicts' stories and feelings are brought to light through this research. For this
reason, we encourage them to open their hearts and minds so that ex-convicts

will be accepted and trusted by more people and have a better opportunity of

having a normal, moral, and decent life in society. Researchers aren't just

interested in helping formerly incarcerated individuals; they want to show current

inmates that there is life after jail.

The Tubod prison service has continued to provide offenders with

rehabilitation programs and vocational education and training that would enable

them reintegrate into society and participate actively in constructive

socioeconomic activities upon release. The knowledge and abilities they've

obtained will help them land a job and keep them away from criminal activity in

the future. Priority should be placed, according to Ross and Richard (2009), on

enhancing offenders' educational or skill levels in order to better prepare them for

life after release from prison. Since most convicted felons will be released from

prison and return to their communities at some point, ensuring that they are well-

trained and prepared for whatever challenges they may face is critical. This

includes providing education at all levels, from elementary school through

postsecondary education. How effective and relevant these training programs are

in rehabilitating and preparing offenders to confront the obstacles upon exit from

jail and make them self-reliant, and helpful to the society, and thus minimize their

likelihood of reoffending remains the central question. After serving a sentence of

rehabilitative jail time, is it possible for an ex-convict to have not just a productive
life but also one in which he or she can enjoy and support himself or herself

through lucrative employment?

It is difficult for offenders to reintegrate because they confront a number of

hurdles (Maruna et al., 2004; Shinkfield and Graffam, 2009). Many people

struggle to get work because they lack the necessary education and skills in the

sector (Seiter and Kadela, 2003). Many people suffer from significant social,

psychological, and physiological issues and are unable to receive assistance

from friends or relatives (Petersilia, 2003). Their release comes with the added

shame of having a criminal record (Pager, 2003). For the fourth time,

incarcerated people's attitudes and abilities don't translate well to the outside

world. After incarceration, a person's life is not just significantly different from

what it was before, but it is often a world they have never known. One expert

believes ex-offenders require both informal and institutional support from family,

religious community... and state government if they are to be reintegrated

successfully (La Vigne, Visher, & Castro, 2004; Petersilia, 2003; Travis,

Solomon, & Waul, 2001; Yin, 2018). Financial aid, close relationships to one's

family, and acceptance by one's religious group are the most prevalent forms of

help. When such resources are easily available, ex-offenders can obtain aid with

their social, economic, emotional, and psychological issues (Petersilia, 2003;

Travis et al., 2001). The best social resources for reintegration, according to

Brunton-Smith and McCarthy, are strong familial ties (2017). According to Bales
and Mears, reintegration into society is more likely for ex-convicts who have

close ties to their families (2008). Family support has also been shown to have a

major impact on reducing recidivism (Nelson, Deess, & Allen, 2011). Former

prisoners and combatants are more likely to be reintegrated into society if they

are welcomed back into their families, according to study (Suarez & Baines,

2021). According to Yin, Korankye-Sakyi, and Atupare, families often provide

little or no assistance to persons who are in prison or who have been convicted

of a crime (2021). Because of this carelessness, the reintegration of many ex-

offenders is jeopardized (Chikadzi, 2017).

According to Jones and Ekunwe, a theory can be discovered in all prison

(2011) Ex-prisoners are overjoyed at the prospect of rejoining society once they

have completed their sentences and been released. Most offenders' penalties

include the promise of a new life free of criminal intent as part of their re-entry

preparations. The lack of liberty and unfavorable living conditions in jail have had

a role. When a prisoner is freed, he or she may be more likely to leave up a life of

crime because of the influence jail has had on their behavior (Osayi, 2013).

According to Cullen and Jonson (2012, p. 25), criminal behavior is influenced by

a number of characteristics. When it comes to criminal behavior, "psychosocial

environment and development" or "biological make-up" are to blame, not free

will, according to this view of the matter. It is possible to reduce recidivism by

putting in place the appropriate mechanisms when a crime is the result of certain
environmental factors. So, prisons need to provide inmates with vocational and

educational programs in order to assist them recover.

Thus, this research will look at the reintegration of ex-convicts into the

society. An ex-life convict's is examined in this study, from the moment he is

arrested through the moment he is released from jail. Ex-convicts' transition from

incarceration to freedom was also a topic of this study's investigation. A

secondary benefit of the research was that it bolstered the views of certain ex-

convicts on how society treated them following their release from prison. This

study will be conducted during the second semester of the school year 2022-

2023. This paper investigated and analyzed the level of Acceptance towards the

Reintegration of an Ex-Convict as perceived by Ex-Convict and selected

community in Purok 5 TCES, Poblacion, Tubod, Lanao del Norte.

Theoretical Framework

The present study is supported by the Labelling Theory of Howard Becker

(1963) and acts as the foundation and overarching concept in understanding the

study. In accordance with the "labeling theory," people adopt identities and

behaviors that mirror the labels others have placed on them. Labeling someone

as a criminally insane person can lead to undesirable behavior, which is why this

notion is widely used in criminal sociology. When someone is labeled as a

criminal, for example, people are more likely to treat them poorly, which can lead

to the person acting out.

The labeling theory is a critical tool for analyzing criminal and pathological

behavior. It begins with the premise that there is no such thing as an inherently

criminal act. Criminality is defined by those in power through the creation and

interpretation of laws by police, courts, and correctional facilities. Deviance, thus,

is not a set of traits of individuals or groups, but rather a process of interplay

between deviants and non-deviants and the context in which criminality is viewed

as a criminal act.

The people in charge of enforcing norms and classifying certain acts as

abnormal include the police, courts, and educators. In order to maintain the

status quo in society, these bureaucrats use labels and categories of deviance to

classify people. Deviance is often defined by the wealthy, men, older individuals,

and racial or ethnic majority groups for minorities by the wealthy. So, dominating

groups in society establish and apply deviant labels to groups below them.

Many children, for example, smash windows, steal fruit from other people's

trees, climb into neighboring yards, or skip school. Families, educators, and law

enforcement officers in affluent areas view these acts as typical of their children's

age. Similar behavior, however, may be interpreted as an indication of juvenile

delinquency in less affluent neighborhoods. This shows that class is a significant

factor in labeling. Race plays a role, too.

 Deviant people are hard to get rid of after they have been labeled. As a

result of this, the person is likely to be viewed by others as being unreliable and

untrustworthy. Because of their criminal record, convicts may have a difficult time

finding work when they're released from jail. Thereby increasing their chances of

internalizing the deviant tag and committing further wrongdoing. Labeled

individuals, even if they don't commit any more crimes, must live with the stigma

of having been formally labeled a wrongdoer forever. The labeling theory has its

detractors who claim that it fails to take into account aspects like socialization,

attitude, and opportunity inequalities that contribute to criminal behavior.

They also claim that it's not clear if labeling leads to an increase in deviant

behavior. Those who have served their time in prison may find themselves back

behind bars because of the relationships they've built with other criminals, which

increases the likelihood that they'll be confronted with new opportunity to commit

crimes. Recidivists are more likely to reoffend when they are exposed to the

criminal population more frequently as a result of being stigmatized. The figure

shows the paradigm of the Labelling Theory:

 Figure 1. The Labeling Theory of Crime

Thus, the present study will be of much benefit in anchoring this theory due

to its timely nature and related variables are described in the previous section.

Conceptual Framework

The present study wanted to know whether the criminal justice system

requires additional resources to boost reintegration efforts and assist former

convicts in finding jobs and housing so they are less likely to repeat their crimes.

In many circumstances, helping ex-offenders effectively reintegrate into society

will help break the intergenerational cycle of criminality as well as prevent costly

recidivism.
 A schematic diagram, shown in Figure A, depicts examples of how the

independent and dependent variables are related, as well as the study's findings.

First, the profile of typical residents is shown by the independent factors.

According to the researchers' theories, the responses of the respondents could

have an impact on the study's outcomes. Last but not least, the output was

geared toward the enrichment strategy.

Demographic Profile of the The Level of Acceptance of

Respondents: the Community towards the
Reintegration of Ex-Convicts
1. Age Enrichment Program
2. Gender 1. Individual Acceptance
3. Educational Attainment 2. Relationship
4. Occupation 3. Job Opportunities

Figure 2. The Schematic Diagram of the Study

Statement of the Problem

The present study aims to answer the following questions:

1. What is the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of:

a. Age;

b. Gender;

c. Educational Attainment;

d. Occupation

2. What is the level of acceptance towards the reintegration of an ex-convict

in terms of:

a. Individual acceptance;

b. Relationship;

c. Job opportunities

3. Is there a significant relationship between the profiles of the respondents to

the level of the acceptance of the ex-convicts?

4. What enrichment program can be drawn and/or suggested based on the

result of the study?

Hypothesis

H1. There is no significant relationship between the profile of the

respondents to the acceptance level of the ex-convicts upon release.

 H2. There is significant relationship between the profile of the respondents

to the acceptance level of the ex-convicts upon release.

Scope and Delimitation

This research looked at how well people in Poblacion, Tubod, Lanao del

Norte accept the reintegration of a formerly incarcerated individual. The study will

take place in Poblacion, Tubod, Lanao del Norte, where survey questionnaires

will be distributed that will take about 30 minutes to complete. For batch 2 of the

S.Y. 2022-2023, the study will take place in the second semester prior to mid-

term.

The study will cater respondents with the age range not lower than 18

years old to assure that the respondents are of legal age and to highly prioritize

their ethical and political considerations.

Significance of the Study

Students, teachers, parents, community members, and future researchers

are all expected to benefit from this study's findings.

Rehabilitating inmates and providing them with programs aimed at

preparing them for a productive post-release life in which they can benefit

themselves, others, and the nation as a whole is the primary goal of the prison
system. Researchers are hopeful that the data they collect will be useful in

formulating prisoner education policies and rehabilitation plans tailored to the

unique circumstances of each inmate. In order to better serve inmates, existing

programs will need to be reevaluated and any necessary changes will be

implemented. It is hoped that the findings will help potential employers make an

informed decision about whether or not to hire ex-prisoners by highlighting the

specific skills and experience they bring to the table. As a result of this study, the

community can better comprehend the ex-inmates and help them reintegrate into

society.

School Administration. The findings of this study could be used to

improve and develop the curriculum. As a result, they can use this study to

provide guidance to current and future researchers and projects.

Students. Students will gain some insight into how the community views

ex-convicts' rehabilitation into society. Because of this insight, students will be

more open-minded and welcoming of ex-offenders, allowing them to participate

in more projects and initiatives aimed at preserving and prioritizing their

rehabilitation and creating an inclusive campus.

Future Researchers. This study's findings will be used as a guide for

future studies on a related topic. For future academics, the study's relevant

reference to discrimination against ex-convicts in the community will provide a

wealth of data that they may use to propose more programs to help construct a
discrimination-free society and compare the programs implemented by different

police stations.

Definition of Terms

The following terms have been defined operationally and conceptually

based on their usage in the study in order to better grasp the various concepts:

Acceptance. According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, it is the quality

or state of being accepted or acceptable. In this study, this is used to determine

the level of the acceptance of the community towards the ex-convicts and is

divided into three levels: the individual level, relationship level, and the job

opportunities level.

Age. According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, it is the amount of time

during which someone or something has lived or existed. In this study, age is

crucial to determine the legality and/or the account of time that the ex-convict

have resented.

Community. According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, it is the unified

body of individuals. In this study, community is used to describe the environment

of which the ex-convicts will be living or spending their lives after prison.

Ex-Convict. According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, an ex-convict is

an accused person who has been tried and found guilty and has even served his
punishment. In this study, the term refers to the people who have served years in

prison for doing felony.

Gender. According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, in light of social and

cultural differences rather than biological ones, either gender can be considered.

Many other identities that do not fit neatly into the binary of "male" and "female"

are referred to as "transgender." In this study, the term is used to determine the

majority of the ex-convict’s population and the reintegration programs offered to

them.

Job Opportunity. According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, it is the

opportunity of employment. In this study, the term is used to determine the job

success rate of the ex-convicts after they are released from prison.

Reintegration. According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, it is the

process of reintegrating a person into society after a period of exile. In this study,

the term refers to the programs and initiatives conducted by the police stations

towards the ex-convicts upon their release.

 Chapter 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This part of the present study includes some related literature and studies of

foreign and local authors which are presented in the following paragraphs.

Related Literature

The different authors and writers had contributed enough and valid proofs

to give real results of this research. These serves as links between the readers

and the studies already done, talks about aspects that have been already

established or concluded by other authors and also give chances to appreciate

the evidences that have already been collected by previous researchers, and

projects the current research work in the proper perspective. The following were

the selected related literatures:

When the term "social reintegration" is used, it usually refers to the

assistance provided to ex-offenders as they prepare to re-enter society after their
release from jail. There are several ways to divert offenders from criminal justice,
such as a restorative justice procedure or an appropriate kind of therapy, but a
more comprehensive definition incorporates them all. Offenders can be
reintegrated into the community by imposing community-based sanctions rather
than prison time, rather than subject them to the negative and marginalizing
effects of imprisonment. Convicted felons receive correctional programs in prison
and aftercare assistance (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2013).
"Aftercare," "transitional care," "reentry or "reentry support," reintegration, or
resettlement have all been used to describe the post-release community-based
component of these programs in recent years. Some post-release treatments
may begin while the offender is still in prison in order to help them acclimate to
life outside of prison.

The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) in the Philippines performed a survey

that found that their jails and penal farms received 5038 admissions over the past
decade. 20 percent of those admitted were recidivists, ex-offenders who had
been released before but were convicted of the same or a different offense
again. This is surprising, given that the recidivism rate in the Philippines in 2004
was only 5%. The final result is often forgotten - offenders leave jail with few
marketable skills, poor education, serious emotional difficulties, broken spirits,
and dread about what comes next, as the capacity of our institutions decreases
at an increasing rate each year (BuCor, 2014). Ex-offenders should be provided
with the tools they need to lead regular lives and reintegrate into society instead
of leaving jail in a worse state than they were when they entered.

A person who has spent a significant amount of time in prison or who has
been hospitalized can be referred to as a "reintegration" if they are permitted to
successfully re-enter society as a person and thereby reduce recidivism.
Contrary to the correctional model used in the most majority of today's prisons,
this approach does not focus on punishment (Stohr, Walsh, & Hemmens, 2012;
Whitehead, Jones, & Branswell, 2013). As a result, the individual will be
subjected to a course of action that aims to prevent them from repeating the
activity that led to their conviction. Reintegration, on the other hand, typically
does not help the individual discover new ways to avoid repeating the same
mistakes that led to their convictions.

After serving their time in jail, ex-convicts often find themselves in need of
aid re-entering society, such as getting a job or securing a place to live (Visher &
Travis, 2014). As a matter of fact, most prisons do little to facilitate a smooth
transition from prison to the outside world, and many of the obstacles that
prevent successful reintegration of ex-offenders after prison are often public laws
that restrict the rights and opportunities of those with criminal records. When an
ex-convict is released from jail, they are faced with the problem of re-entering
society and finding a job so that they may meet their basic needs. Employers in
Multi-City of Urban Inequality, for example, refused to hire people with criminal
records in almost 60% of the studies they conducted. The results of a
Midwestern city's examination on its hiring processes show that roughly half of
those who acknowledged to having a criminal past were not hired (National
Longitudinal Survey of Youth, 1979, 2012.). Ex-offenders may return to criminal
behavior because of the difficulty and stress of transitioning back into a normal
life after being released from jail (Wikoff, Linhorst & Morani, 2012).

Related Studies

New York Council of State Governments Justice Center, 2014; Maltz,

2015; Taylor, 2012) have found that recidivism rates in state prisons are
alarmingly high, as have other studies on the subject (Maltz, 2015; Taylor, 2012).
Ex-prisoners' reintegration has long been recognized as a critical issue in the
world of correctional services (Shinkfield & Graffam, 2013). To that end, ongoing
efforts to minimize recidivism include supporting successful reintegration
(Dougherty, 2013; Shinkfield & Graffam, 2013; Maltz, 2015).

Reintegration and re-incarceration

Factors that influence an individual's road to reintegration have been

identified by researchers in the field. When it comes to an ex-re-entry offender
into society, state policy and stress play an important impact. But each ex-
offender is affected differently by various causes. And therefore, the study's task
is to figure out how these aspects of transition from prison to community affect
ex-offenders' ability to successfully reintegrate themselves into society. Visher
and Travis (2013) hypothesized five criteria, which the current study addresses.
A person's religious or spiritual beliefs can also have a role in a person's life.

The ex-convict (Individual Differences)

Many of the hardships that people face is the result of their own choices.
As a result of this, there are some results that appear to be the result of external
influences. An example of this kind of stress is the kind described by Sieber,
Gunter-Hunt, and Farrell-Holtan (2010, 2012) as the kind that elderly people face
when they have to leave the comfort of their own homes and enter a nursing
facility. An individual's "entry shock" or "blow to the psyche" during jail is akin to
this "relocation stress" (Erikson, 2017). People who are incarcerated under these
conditions are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression (Crawley &
Sparks, 2015), as well as a refusal to accept their current identity or "master
status" as prisoners (Raphael, 2016), as well as an internal "quest for meaning"
to figure out what to do with their lives (Hodgkinson & Stewart, 2016).

Those who are incarcerated may have a warped and unclear view of the
world and/or themselves in this type of existential crisis. Normal people usually
have something of significance to add meaning to their lives even in the face of
awful experiences, such as other elements of their lives that aren't directly related
to the experience. The perspective of a prisoner, on the other hand, does not
allow for a simple shift to another dimension to discover significance. As a means
of "survival," those who have been imprisoned often adopt new ways of thinking
and functioning (Zamble & Quinsey, 2015). Individuals' defensiveness or defense
mechanisms, as they are known in psychoanalysis, take varied forms in these
reactions. This pragmatic and welcoming attitude was found in many of the
participants in Crawley & Sparks (2015)'s study. As a means of coping in prison,
these individuals drew on their earlier experiences of brutality and used them as
the fulcrum of their psychological survival. Others regressed and, when
questioned about their time in jail, would switch the subject to events, people,
and places they'd encountered before their arrest and arrest (Crawley & Sparks,
2015).

As soon as inmates have admitted or become "used-to" these ways of

thinking and behaving, and as long as they aren't given the proper support and
guidance, "entry shock" and similar feelings of anxiety and fear resurface for the
person who has spent the majority of their time in an institution which is unlike
the outside world and which offers little support upon their re-entry. To better
understand how reintegration can be enhanced, it can be helpful to look at how
various individuals react and adjust to these kinds of changes.

Individual-level influences such as family and peers are the ones that can
help a person successfully reintegrate into society, according to the evidence
reviewed above. The important life events that affect a person's moral ideals and
convictions are among these factors (Svenson, Weerman, Pauwells, Bruinsma, &
Bernasco, 2013). Events such as getting married, finding a permanent job, and
moving to an area with a low crime rate were explored by Farrington and Davis
(2013) to enhance an individual's greater desire to reintegrate into society. Other
elements such as the ex-family offender's and/or friends are critical to the
success of these impacts.

Family

Re-entering society after incarceration is a tough task (Solomon et al.,

2013). Substance abuse, mental disease, and a wide range of health issues are
all part of the daily lives of many in this community (Williams-Queen, 2014).
Consequently, re-entry intervention and programs should not only focus on giving
economic and structural resources to live but should also address the social and
emotional components of life from the perspective of the offender. (Denney,
Tewksbury & Jones, 2014). In terms of crime and recidivism, social support has
been demonstrated to play an important influence (Taylor & Becker, 2015).

Community, social networks, and confiding partners have been referred to

as "the perceived or actual instrumental and/or expressive provisions offered by
the community" (Lin, 2015). A network of family, friends, and/or community
members who can provide financial and/or emotional support while an offender is
in prison and as the offender re-enters society is considered social support in the
offender context (Denney et al., 2014). Since they lack the support of their
families, ex-offenders are more likely to engage in criminal conduct because they
lack the belief that their families can provide moral and financial support to deter
them from reverting back. For ex-offenders who do not have a new social support
system, they are more likely to return to their former social support system of
criminals, drug or alcohol abusers, which increases the risk of recidivism for
those who do not have one (Denney et al., 2014).

On the other hand, a supportive family environment can help ex-offenders

reintegrate successfully into society (Flower, 2013). A former offender's re-entry
into society might be impacted by the support he or she receives from family
members after their release, whether it is emotional, financial or tangible (Naser
& Visher, 2014). In particular, the family's emotional, housing, and financial
assistance led to employment and a decrease in substance abuse (La Vigne,
Visher & Castro, 2014). Providing ex-offenders with emotional resources to cope
with the hard re-entry process through the provision of emotional support within
family relations can diminish their desire to commit crimes (Glaser, 2015).
 Former criminals who lack the moral and material support of family
members are more prone to participate in criminal activity because they lack a
social network that can protect them from relapsing into their previous ways of
life. With no new social support structure in place, ex-offenders may return to
their former group of criminals, drug or alcohol abusers, which increases their
risk of re-offending (Denney et al., 2014). As an alternative, a supportive family
environment can help ex-offenders reintegrate into society more easily and
successfully (Flower, 2013). A former criminal's re-entry into society might be
affected by the emotional, financial/tangible, or any other type of support they
receive from their family following their release from prison (Naser & Visher,
2014). In particular, the family's emotional, housing, and financial assistance led
to employment and a decrease in substance abuse (La Vigne, Visher & Castro,
2015). Re-entry into society can be unpleasant for ex-offenders, and emotional
support from family members can help alleviate some of that burden (Glaser,
2015).

By looking at offending in connection to society through the lens of social

control theory, we can see how relationships to friends and family can have an
impact on the likelihood of repeat offenses (Hirschi, 2016). A newly released
prisoner's family is referred to as a "buffering agent" since they can help
reintegrate the criminal into society and prevent him from committing another
crime (Laub & Sampson, 2013). Restrictions on where and with whom an
offender can interact (e.g., frequent drinking, partying in bars and clubs, and drug
use) might be imposed by family ties. (Berg & Huebner, 2014).

As a result of having a criminal record, a person will be shunned from the

community's social circles (Matza, 2015). It has been found that the offender's
stigma is overlooked by the offender's family members (Eckland -Olson et al.,
2018). The newly released inmates in New York City who spoke the most about
their families' acceptance of them were the ones who showed success in the
workplace and a desire to avoid crime, according to a study of the group (Nelson,
Dees &Allen, 1999, 2012). This suggests that family acceptance and
encouragement are linked to a successful reintegration into the community
(Travis, 2013). Ex-offenders' reintegration into society relies heavily on their
families, according to the literature. One of the most crucial predictors of a
person's ability to successfully reintegrate back into society is the presence of
supporting family members (Berg & Huebner, 2011, 2015).
Peers

Re-entry outcomes for ex-offenders have been undervalued because of

the persistent challenge they encounter in the community upon their return
(Shivy, Wu, Moon & Man, 2015). The ex-peers’ offenders are another crucial
aspect in their rehabilitation (Taylor &Becker, 2015). The importance of peer
support for offenders at vital points in their path, including as release, cannot be
overstated (Trace & Johnson, 2013). More than one way can be hampered by
the difficulties of reintegrating with one's peers. Igbo and Ugwuoke (2013) found
that terrible jail conditions and the public's hostility toward ex-offenders are the
two most significant influences on the likelihood of recidivists returning to the
criminal justice system. According to Osayi's (2015) research, re-offending by ex-
offenders can be as simple as failing to successfully reintegrate back into society
due to socio-cultural reasons. Ex-convicts appear to have a common theme in
the reality they face once they've been released from prison: stigma (as cited in
Williams-Queen, 2014).

Having a close friendship with criminals is another example of how peer

interactions can impede a successful reintegration. "Recidivism is strongly
related to whether they associate with people who participate in criminal activity,"
observed Cobbina, Huebner, and Berg (2012) in their study of the impact of peer
interactions on re-offending. Hochstetler, DeLisi, and Pratt (2013) found that
social support had a significant impact on animosity and prisoner reintegration
into the community. It was determined if the criminal had friends who could assist
them financially, listen to their issues or help them stop committing crimes. The
identification of social support. The study found that criminals who were
subjected to a harsh prison environment and lacked peers to confide in may
demonstrate antagonism as they reintegrate into the outside world. Successful
reintegration and reduced recidivism can be facilitated by peer assistance. Those
ex-offenders who have good ties with their fellow ex-offenders have a lower
recidivism rate (Taylor & Becker, 2015). Visher and Travis (2013) observed that
an ex-offender with peer support fared better than an ex-offender with no peer
support, which lends credence to this theory.

Additional research has shown that probationers who completed a four-

month residential substance addiction treatment program indicated compatibility
with other clients (offenders), which resulted in much decreased re-arrest rates.
Recidivism rates were also lower among probationers with a positive view of their
fellow inmates. It is possible that positive peer support could reduce recidivism.

Ex-offenders' successful reintegration into society depends in part,

according to research, on the support of their family and colleagues. Ex-
offenders who are released from jail to the outside world confront significant
hurdles that necessitate relying largely on family and peer networks to cope with
the difficulties they encounter upon their release (Naser & Visher, 2014; Taylor &
Becker, 2015). Re-entry outcomes and effective reintegration have been shown
to be positively correlated with the presence of family and peer support (Denney
et al., 2014; Berg & Huebner, 2011; Naser & Visher, 2014).

Ex-offenders need far more than laws and punishment to keep them from
committing future crimes, according to those who work to help them reintegrate
into society after their release from prison (Dougherty,2013). Re-entry into
society for many ex-offenders is difficult because of their criminal record, which
continues to have implications long after the individual has completed their term.
This hinders their ability to successfully reintegrate and fulfill their goals.

Spirituality

In addition, because social support has such a significant impact on an

individual's well-being, ex-inmates may turn to their spiritual leader for direction
or assistance. When it comes to discovering one's purpose and meaning in life,
Fowler et al. (2011) described spirituality as an intimate relationship with a
Supreme Being. This system of beliefs, values, and ambitions is also regarded a
good indicator of religious affiliation instead of seeking for inspiration, reverence,
awe; meaning; and purpose (Slattery &Parker, 2011; Culliford, 2012). As
important as spirituality is in an ex-successful offender's reintegration, it can also
impede it. In particular, it just targets one spectrum of need, and the need to
transition from a holistic approach in transforming behavior is critical (Slattery &
Park,2011). High school students selected at random found no correlation
between their level of religious commitment and criminal activity, according to a
2002 study by Hirschi. This suggests that a person's religious beliefs have no
effect on their behavior. In addition, because religious disagreements in the
family can lead to family strife, having many religions can raise the likelihood of a
family member committing a crime (Pearce & Haynie, 2014). In other studies, it
was shown that a society's tendency toward religious dominance can lead to an
uptick in crime and homicide. Study results show that people who attend church
frequently and believe strongly in God are more likely to embrace violence than
those who don't. Violence and criminality are also more prevalent in communities
with high levels of Christianity because they are more permissive of violence
(Lee, 2016).

Spirituality, on the other hand, can aid in the process of reintegration.

When it comes to eliminating maladaptive behavior, reducing recidivism and
substance misuse, the spirituality of an individual is a key component (Walton,
2017). Understanding the contradiction between a person's spirituality and their
maladaptive identity might help a person change their negative conduct into
positive behavior (Chase, 2012). Reintegration and rehabilitation of ex-offenders
are typically facilitated by faith-based groups and communities taking the lead on
character and faith-building programs (Rossman et al., 1999, 2016). Since their
release from prison, the formerly incarcerated individuals have experienced the
benefits of faith-based spiritual strategies (Swanson, 2019; Slattery & Park, 2011,
2015).

Employment Laws of the State

While most jails do little to help ex-offenders transition back into society,
many of the barriers to a successful reintegration are public regulations that limit
the rights and opportunities of persons with criminal histories. When released
from prison, the majority of former inmates’ desire to return to work in a position
that is both legal and secure. Visher et al. (2015) claim that former criminals who
find and keep a legitimate job are less likely to reoffend. In order to land a well-
paying job, you'll need a spotless criminal record. In many instances, state
employment policies can impede a person's successful reintegration back into
society. In order to hire a Filipino employee, you must provide an NBI clearance
that does not contain a hit mark. In order to secure a job, a prospective employer
will need to know that the person they are interviewing does not have any
criminal records. Individuals with hit marks on their NBI clearances may have a
difficult time obtaining work that matches their talents and abilities. Finding and
keeping a job after jail is a crucial part of readjusting to civilian life and changing
one's identity, according to former inmates (Wakefield & Western, 2005, 2012).
Reintegration experts feel that these kinds of experiences are essential
(Bushway & Reuter, 2002, 2012). When ex-convicts return to society, they may
find work with their former employer or in professions that don't require a great
deal of expertise or customer interaction, such as cleaning (Holzer et al., 2007,
2017). Formerly jailed individuals can obtain work thanks in part to the efforts of
businesses and organizations. Ex-offenders may face difficulties in their attempts
to reintegrate into society if these issues aren't addressed. Laws and
occupational licensing regulations that prohibit job candidates with criminal
records from obtaining certain positions might be a direct impediment for
employers in recruiting formerly imprisoned individuals. On the other hand, rules
that allow companies to disqualify job applicants with criminal history, regardless
of the form or extent of the record, are examples of indirect barriers (Harris &
Keller, 2015). Because of this, businesses may be reluctant to hire criminals for
positions that involve public interaction, cash handling, or direct supervision of
youngsters (Visher et al., 2014).

Employers' decisions to recruit persons with criminal records have also

been studied by Holzer and his colleagues (2014), who analyzed data from
employer surveys. More than two-thirds of businesses polled (almost 3,000 of
them) said they would not consider hiring someone with a criminal record. When
it came to recruiting people with criminal histories, experience was definitely a
factor: those with property or drug-related criminal records were more likely to be
hired than those recently released from prison with little or no job experience or
those who had previously been involved in violence. Ex-inmates' job and wages
are significantly impacted as a result of these "collateral repercussions" of
imprisonment (Travis, 2005, 2015). For ex-convicts, the combination of personal
and public barriers to employment and the perceived status of ex-convicts in the
eyes of employers creates a perilous position.

In the wake of their release from jail, ex-convicts have a lower likelihood of
finding work (Needles, 2016). Most, if not all, firms avoid hiring ex-convicts
because of their criminal record. As a result, it is difficult for ex-inmates to
reintegrate into society and become productive members of society. The Senate
Bill No. 114, also known as the Former Prisoners' Employment Act of 2007, is
one governmental policy being explored in the Philippines to help ex-offenders
successfully reintegrate back into society. An additional fifteen percent (15
percent) of the total amount paid in wages and salary to former convicts is
proposed to be deducted from gross income for businesses employing ex-
prisoners (S. 114, 2007). A Committee on Employment Opportunities for Former
Prisoners would be established under the Department of Justice, and its job
would be to design the rules and regulations necessary to put the committee's
recommendations into action (S. 114, 2007).

An intervention or program to manage the prison population should be put

into place in the Philippines due to an increase in the number of people
incarcerated there. Prison systems spend a lot of money on rehabilitation
programs, but there are relatively few programs geared to help ex-offenders get
jobs, find homes, and get treatment for substance abuse (Braman, 2014).

Many ex-offenders are unable to get the support they need, and the
requirements of many returning convicts are being overlooked by the supportive
and transitional agencies (Visher & Travis, 2014). Correctional facilities could
benefit from treating inmates like patients in need of therapy and supervision so
that they can return to society as productive and responsible members once they
are released from jail or prison (Hirano et al., 2013). Many of these impediments,
however, are the product of governmental regulations that restrict the rights and
possibilities of persons with criminal records. There is a substantial likelihood of
recidivism among freshly released convicts who leave prison with no money or a
place to stay, as well as little preparation for the outside world (Maltz, 2015).
According to the Prison Reform Trust (2015), around 49-61 percent of the crime
the individual was convicted of, and an expected recidivism rate of 50 percent is
reflected (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2009). It is estimated that 60% of parolees
reoffend within three years, either because of fresh criminal records or
administrative or technical violations, according to Fischer (2015), Visher &
Travis (2013) and Flower (2013).

Despite the fact that research on reintegration and recidivism is well-

established, a void still exists. Individual differences, family, peers, spirituality,
and employment policies of the state are only a few of the topics that have
received little attention in the research on effective reintegration. Reintegration
into society can be hampered by many variables, many of which have been
studied in depth in the literature. Now it's time to talk about how these
characteristics help people reintegrate into society and reduce their chances of
recidivism. Because of this, the current study aims to gain a deeper
understanding of how these elements can help ex-offenders reintegrate into
society and thereby reduce recidivism.

Chapter 3

RESEARCH METHODS

This chapter presents the methods used in the study. It also discusses the

research design, research environment, research respondents, research

instruments and its validity, data gathering procedure, and statistical treatment of

the study.

Research Design

This study used descriptive correctional research designs which involved

the level of acceptance of the Community towards the Reintegration of an Ex-

convict. The aimed of the design was to survey the respondents using guide

questions in collecting the data of this research in a Likert scale form.

Research Environment
 This study will be conducted in Purok 5 TCES, Poblacion, Tubod, Lanao

del Norte. This in under in the municipality of Tubod, second-class municipality in

the province of Lanao del Norte It has a population of 50,073 people, according

to the 2020 census. When completed, the Panguil Bay Bridge will connect Tubod

and Tangub City in Misamis Occidental, making it Mindanao's (and by far the

Philippines') longest bridge. The project, which would cost roughly

US$125,519,000.00, will be funded through the Korean Export-Import Bank of

Korea-Economic Development Cooperation Fund's Official Development

Assistance. The bridge is currently under construction and is scheduled to open

on December 28, 2020.

PHILIPPINES MAP MINDANAO MAP

TUBOD MAP LANAO DEL NORTE MAP

Figure 2. The Locale of the Study

Respondents

The respondents of the study were the Ex-convict and the selected

community of Poblacion, Tubod, Lanao del Norte who were official voters and

residents. The number of the respondents needed by the researchers 1 Ex-

convict ; and 150 from the community residents with a total of 151 respondents to

come up with factual results.

Research Instruments and its Validity

In this study, one instruments used to gather the needed data. These

include the Level of acceptance of the Community towards the Reintegration of

an Ex-convict. These instruments were checked by the thesis adviser and

college instructor for validation. The researchers used three topics (Demographic

Profile of the Respondents which includes: age, gender, civil status, educational

attainment, and occupation, Part II – The Level of Acceptance of the Community

Towards The Reintegration of an Ex-Convict which includes: individual

acceptance, relationship, job opportunities)

These instruments were checked by the thesis adviser and college

instructors for validation. This study used two types of respondents which were

the Ex-convict and community residents of Poblacion, Tubod, Lanao del Norte.

Scoring Plan
___________________________________________________________
Score Descriptive Rating Verbal Interpretation

Part II & Part III

___________________________________________________________
5 Always Highly Positive
4 Oftentimes Positive
3 Sometimes Moderately Positive
2 Seldom Negative
1 Never Highly Negative
___________________________________________________________

Data Gathering Procedures

A formal letter was given to the school President, Executive Vice

President, Vice President for Research, Vice President for Academic Affairs,

Department Dean, Ex-convict, and Respondents for permission to conduct the

study. With the approval, the researchers distributed the questionnaires to the

survey. The researchers facilitated the distribution of the survey. Retrieved the

questionnaires analyzed and interpreted the data gathered.

Decided of
Prepared letters
Start having a
for approval
survey
 Constructed the
Validated the questionnaires
Questionnaires

Administered and
Retrieved the
conducted the
questionnaire
questionnaire

Analyzed, evaluated, and

End interpreted the result

Figure 3. The Flowchart in the Conduct of Study and the Gathering of Data

Statistical Treatment

To have an accurate interpretation of the gathered data, the following

statistical tools were utilized:

 Frequency and/or Percentage. This was used to establish the profile of

the Ex-convict, selected community and was applied in problem 1, and 2.

Weighed Mean. This was used to determine the Level of acceptance of

the community towards of an Ex-convict and was applied in problem 3.

Chi-square. This was used to determine the significant relationship and

was applied in problem 4,5 and 6