Trauma, loss common in repeat offenders - ISS

The Institute for Security Studies, together with Correctional Services, examined the backgrounds of repeat violent offenders “to identify risks and develop interventions”.

Johannesburg - “There is seldom a simple or a single reason for an individual using violence.”

That’s the view of Dr Chandre Gould, author and senior research fellow at the Institution for Security Studies (ISS). In groundbreaking research, the ISS, together with the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), examined the life histories and life circumstances of repeat violent offenders “to identify risks and develop interventions to reduce and prevent violent crime”.

The Star spoke to Gould about the research and the findings.

“We partnered with DCS so that this study would guide the development of appropriate policies and practices, and because DCS is deeply concerned about its role in preventing repeat offending.

“The findings about why some men turn to violence can inform the understanding and work of DCS in future,” she said.

Gould explained that most of the prison inmates she interviewed experienced loss early in life.

“A loss of a parent or loss of a home or perhaps perceived betrayal by adults in their lives. What they shared was an absence of a positive, caring adult, even one that was not a parent, who they could speak to or turn to,” she said.

“Most experienced adults, whether parent or teachers or social workers, as representing a harsh form of authority.”

Gould said interviewees had experienced stress and trauma from early in their lives, with some turning to alcohol and drugs as a form of self-medication. ”But this led not only to more violence but also to a deepening of their personal crises,” she said, adding that gun ownership from a young age also had an effect on the nature and severity of the crimes committed.

She emphasised that while most of the men she spoke to had experienced violence in their homes, at school and in their communities, this was not the case for all offenders.

“Their own individual personalities, in combination with life experiences, and perhaps also peer groups who supported the use of violence, contributed to their behaviour.”

She said early intervention was the most important factor in preventing vulnerable children from falling into a life of violence and crime, and positive parenting was crucial.

“The safety and happiness of many South African children is undermined by violence in their homes and communities.

“We believe parents can develop positive, non-violent skills to help them keep their children safe in and outside of the home.”

Gould explained that another way to support parents was by requiring employers to make childcare available to their staff.

“Parents who work but are unable to afford after-school care for their children find themselves in a very difficult situation - being unable to ensure the safety of their children while they are not at home.”

ilanit.chernick@inl.co.za

@Lanc_02

The Star