Long-term incarceration in Malta : psychological aspects and social perspectives of inmates

Abstract

Various topics including recidivism and adapting to life after incarceration have been researched focusing mainly on the effects on families and children of the prisoners in Malta instead of the prisoners themselves. This study helps to understand long term incarceration, by assessing the psychological and sociological aspect in Malta along with evaluating the alternatives of improving the situation in such instances for the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates in society. The literature review discusses the existing research regarding long-term incarceration which focuses on the psychological aspects such as deprivation, deterioration, mental health conditions, as well as sociological aspects such as limited interaction with the community. The purpose of this research was to understand the intricacies of how incarceration has an impact on the inmates’ mental health and resultant psychological conditions, as well as understanding the sociological aspects, such as the relationships of inmates with their loved ones outside prison, especially when adjusting back to society after being released from prison. It was for this reason that qualitative research was identified as the most appropriate method by which to carry out the study. A total of five interviews were conducted with professionals consisting of three psychologists and two social workers. The interviews were semi-structured and qualitative methodology was used for the purpose of this research. A list of emergent themes were then identified through thematic analysis of the data gathered which were discussed in the findings and discussion chapter. This chapter started off by presenting the demographic information of participants, whereas the second part of the chapter focuses on the emergent themes being the mental conditions, isolation, labelling and deprivation, psychological therapy and educational programmes. Interviews with professionals were conducted where this research suggests psychological therapy and services such as educational programmes. While wishing that this study will provide a better understanding of the impacts that long term incarceration has on the inmates in Malta, it also provides information for further research in this field.