Perceptions of offenders and correctional officials on rehabilitation in maximum correctional centres

Abstract

With South Africa fast gaining notoriety as a crime-ridden country, there is an urgent need to examine this pariah status. Not only does crime affect those involved; individuals, families, communities and the country as a whole become casualties of such branding. It is against this background that this study examined the perceptions of offenders and correctional officials on rehabilitation programmes in maximum correctional centres, in the North-West Province. The question posed in this article is whether or not rehabilitation policies are incongruent with practice. Qualitative research was used as a research paradigm. Using in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and key-informant interviews, a total of 25 participants were purposefully selected. Data analysed was descriptive and established that correctional rehabilitation programmes fit the purpose. Barriers to the rehabilitation process are varied, with overcrowding at the top. One of the recommended strategies is the strengthening of stakeholder participation.