Asian Research Journal of Arts & Social Sciences

Volume 21, Issue 3, Page 61-77, 2023; Article no.ARJASS.106445

ISSN: 2456-4761

Life after Imprisonment: Exploring the

Repercussions of Jail Time on
Ex-Convicts
Grace Anne Agtong a++*, Alan Bazer a++,
Kate Angellie Descuatan a++ and Emma C. Ceballo a#
a UM Digos College, Davao del Sur, Philippines.

Authors’ contributions

This work was carried out in collaboration among all authors. All authors read and approved the final
manuscript.

Article Information
DOI: 10.9734/ARJASS/2023/v21i3472

Open Peer Review History:

This journal follows the Advanced Open Peer Review policy. Identity of the Reviewers, Editor(s) and additional Reviewers,
peer review comments, different versions of the manuscript, comments of the editors, etc are available here:
https://www.sdiarticle5.com/review-history/106445

Received: 17/07/2023
Original Research Article Accepted: 23/09/2023
Published: 13/10/2023

ABSTRACT
Representation is imperative to help society comprehend what life is like after imprisonment. This
qualitative study delves into the nuanced experiences of formerly incarcerated individuals,
commonly referred to as ex-convicts, within the province of Davao del Sur. Through snowball
sampling and in-depth interviews, we explored the challenges they faced, the consequences of
these challenges, the coping mechanisms they employed, and the insights gained during their
reintegration into society. Utilizing a phenomenological approach, the research uncovers three
primary challenges faced by ex-convicts: (1) anticipated stigma and stigma management, the
struggle to secure (2) emotional and material support, and (3) social readjustment and reintegration
due to their preconceived detachment from society outside prison. Moreover, the findings indicate
that former inmates experienced negative effects caused by their time in jail, leading to (1) emotional
distress. However, the experience also served as a means for them to (2) restore their faith and
become more (3) introspective in their thoughts and actions. Their coping mechanisms provided
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
++
BS Psychology, Undergraduates;
#
Research Adviser;
*Corresponding author: Email: [email protected];

Asian Res. J. Arts Soc. Sci., vol. 21, no. 3, pp. 61-77, 2023
 Agtong et al.; Asian Res. J. Arts Soc. Sci., vol. 21, no. 3, pp. 61-77, 2023; Article no.ARJASS.106445

them hope and a positive mindset in overcoming the challenges they encountered, such as (1)
social and spiritual, and (2) mindful acceptance of their current situation, which showed their
resilience, faith, and as a repercussion of their violations. Furthermore, imprisonment became
insightful learning to them to have a (1) stronghold between family ties and emotional support, as
well as (2) renewed their faith in God. Consequently, government social reentry programs must be
reinforced to help these individuals in many facets of their lives to promote resilient adjustments and
prevent recidivism.

Keywords: Challenges; coping mechanism; ex-convicts; insights; phenomenological study;

repercussions of jail time.

1. INTRODUCTION making it difficult for them to start over and land

better employment. Ex-convicts are ashamed to
Life inside a prison cell is undeniably punishing, seek employment due to their record as ex-
where isolation and the loss of freedom can have offenders, resulting in unemployment for several
profound, life-altering effects, leaving behind months or years.
scars that are not quickly healed. Even beyond
incarceration and life after imprisonment, still, the In Mindanao, particularly in Davao de Oro, ex-
ghosts of their past mistakes still linger offenders are deemed for lifetime conviction as
throughout their existence. Liberty is freedom; they are subjected to neglect and restrictions
however, limitations occur with the presence of since most people stigmatize individuals sent to
law and morality. In lieu of freedom deprivation, prison for constant deviance. They are subjected
an individual is imprisoned because of some to social disconnection and constraint as a
serious violations they have committed and they punishment even after their incarceration is over.
are denied their liberty all at once. However, It is undoubtedly challenging to combat all these
cases may change to those who have served factors; some ex-offenders have continued living,
their sentence in compensation and have been regaining self-esteem, establishing healthy
liberated. Garcia [1] stated that the opportunity to personalities, and interacting with family, friends,
see the world after being incarcerated can be and others [4].
exciting and terrifying at the same time for
prisoners. Especially when the people in Its objective is to comprehend what life is like for
question are ex-convicts guilty of a crime. individuals after their release from prison, which
Despite being released and given freedom from is not often discussed. This research sheds light
prison, ironically these individuals still are on the real-life obstacles and difficulties that ex-
deprived of freedom in many aspects of life. convicts encounter as they strive to rebuild their
lives in society. It's not solely about
Globally, research has indicated that comprehending their experiences; it's also about
incarceration harms the job prospects and making our communities safer by helping them
direction of formerly jailed individuals, as seen in successfully reintegrate. In doing so, we may
studies from Norway, Denmark, Finland, and also break down the walls of stigma and
Sweden [46]. Moreover, Wildeman and Wang, judgment that ex-convicts frequently encounter,
[47] stated that incarceration should be noted in fostering empathy and support. This study is not
and of itself, has a significant detrimental impact solely academic; it is a step towards a more
on ex-convicts' general well-being. Ex-convicts compassionate and inclusive world where
freed from jail suffer poorer health than those everyone has the opportunity for a fresh start
without confinement records. Furthermore, (Ali et after serving their sentence in prison.
al., 2018; Western, [2] stated that ex-convicts are
lifetime victims of violence during and after their There were two scientific theories from social
incarceration; they are victimized by racial science that guided this study; the Labeling
inequality, unemployment, difficulty reentering Theory and Psychological Stress Theory.
society, and chronic and mental illness. Labelling theory is defined as people in the
community evaluating and labelling a person
In the Philippines, Pino et al. [3] stated that ex- based on their previous misdemeanour records
convicts’ first problem was finding employment. Becker, [5]. In sociology, the labelling theory
After being released from incarceration, no one focuses on how social labelling contributes to the
provides them with household needs, thus growth of crime and deviance. According to the

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theory, although a variety of factors may at first phenomenological study. The research
cause deviant behaviour, once someone has participants were ex-convicts categorically
been given the label of being deviant, they chosen based on the following: Ex-convicts
frequently experience new issues as a result of (convicted for four years or more) regardless of
how others and themselves react to the stigma the reason for being convicted, male and female,
(negative stereotypes) associated with the ages 25 years old and above, and at least six
deviant designation [6,7] Becker, [5]. months of liberation. Moreover, snowball
sampling was used to collect the needed and
Psychological Stress Theory has two significant necessary participants for this research study.
components, appraisal and coping [8]. Stress is Snowball sampling, stated by Creswell [13] is a
regarded as a conceptual belief, which implies technique for purposeful sampling that occurs
that it is not defined as a specific form of external after research begins when the researcher asks
stimulation or a pattern of physiological, a participant to nominate another individual to be
behavioural, or psychological reactions. A study a participant.
by Lazarus [9] defined stress as an interaction
between people and their environment. The 2.2 Instrument
appraisal is founded on the premise that people's
genuine expectations about the significance and In this study, interviewers followed a documented
outcome of a particular encounter influence their list of questions, and four interview questions
emotional processes, such as stress (Lazarus, with probing questions were developed and
1966: Lazarus and Launier, [10]. Moreover, validated by experts. A semi-structured interview
coping is inextricably linked to cognitive appraisal was used, an appropriate data collection method
and, by extension, to the transactions of a when a researcher needs to collect open-ended
stressful person-environment. Folkman and qualitative data to evaluate the respondent's
Lazarus [11] define coping as a cognitive and ideas, emotions, and views regarding the given
behavioural endeavour to master, tolerate, or issue [14]. The researcher asked more open-
decrease internal and external demands and ended questions, allowing for a dialogue with the
tensions. interviewee [15].

1.1 Research Question 2.3 Design and Procedure

This study explored the repercussions of jail time This study utilized a qualitative design and a
on ex-convicts after liberation. This research phenomenological research approach to
study aimed to answer the following research investigate people's perspectives and
questions: experiences. Qualitative research, as described
by Ravitch and Carl [16] involves understanding
1. What are the challenges encountered by how individuals perceive the world and connect
ex-convicts from conviction to freedom? their own experiences. Phenomenological
2. What are the changes or repercussions of inquiry, following Patton [17] helps researchers
Jail time on ex-convicts after delve into the deeper meanings of everyday
incarceration? experiences. Due to pandemic protocols,
3. After liberation, what are the coping interviews were conducted online using platforms
mechanisms of ex-offenders to continue like Google Meet and video messenger, with
their life? dialogues recorded after consent by participants.
4. What are the insights of ex-convicts after The interviews used open-ended questions to
their imprisonment? gather detailed information on important topics.
The collected data underwent thematic analysis,
which involved identifying recurring patterns and
2. METHODS
themes. The study followed six main procedures:
familiarization, coding, theme generation, theme
2.1 Participants examination, theme definition and naming, and
writing up, as outlined by Kiger and Varpio [18].
In this research, the participants were comprised
of ex-convicts within the province of Davao del 2.4 Ethics
Sur who had been released from prison upon
completion of their imprisonment. A total of five The researchers closely adhered to the following
participants were interviewed. Creswell [12] standards in gathering the study data: First, the
recommended five to twenty-five interviews for a researchers requested a formal permission letter

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from the Dean of the UM Digos College. and Material Support, and (3) Social
Following the ethical guidelines in conducting this Readjustment and Reintegration.
research, authorization from an ethics specialist
was sought. Consent was given by participants Individuals who have been released from
after they were explained about the study's incarceration often encounter difficulties
fundamental nature, their right to decline to stemming from the negative perceptions and
participate, and the risks associated with their limited assistance they receive from society,
participation. Researchers ensured each including both emotional and material support.
participant's involvement in the study would be The data is graphically presented in Fig. 1,
kept confidential, only utilizing their life providing a clear illustration of the research
experiences. Members were allowed to think for findings.
themselves, voluntarily agree, and be free of 3.1.1 Anticipated stigma and stigma
abuse and compulsion while the researcher management
began the data-gathering process.
Those who have served time behind bars are
3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION frequently confronted with social isolation,
prejudice, and persistent shame. These
3.1 Encountered Challenges of Ex- obstacles can impede their efforts to reintegrate
convicts from Conviction to Freedom into society after their release. Regrettably, some
community members may treat them unjustly and
The first research objective was to examine ex- subject them to feelings of inferiority, leading
convicts’ challenges as they tried to rebuild their them to doubt that they deserve a fresh start.
lives after being released from jail. The following The following are insights from individuals who
themes emerged in accordance with the have encountered such difficulties and how they
responses of the participants: (1) Anticipated cope with the negative perceptions of their prior
Stigma and Stigma Management, (2) Emotional imprisonment.

Fig. 1. Theme illustration of encountered challenges of ex-convicts from conviction to freedom

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Anne, who struggled with drug addiction, has cannot be prevented, regardless of whether they
been restricting herself from participating in choose to listen or not.
outdoor activities due to concerns about societal
judgment. In contrast, Roel, who faced similar 3.1.2 Social readjustment and reintegration
challenges as Anne, has experienced societal
judgment but found it to be a motivating factor to These ex-convicts can now live outside of prison
overcome his struggles. after finishing their sentences. Being free
involves readjusting their lives to have
“…kay sa katilingban ilahang pangkutya kay constraints in order to finally state that they have
mahiubos kaayu ko, naay alanganin ug successfully reintegrated into society. Social
kaulaw. Naa jud silay alanganin sa akoa readjustment and reintegration were shown to be
pero gibuhat nako ang hinagiban para mag difficult for these ex-convicts primarily upon their
padayun sa kinabuhi. Gihimo nako ug kusog incarceration, they needed to reestablish their
para malampasan nako ang tanan (The life, daily routines, and practices to show in
society mock me and that made me feel society that they were changing their lifestyle
inferior, I was hesitant and ashamed. They away from doing an unlawful act.
are hesitant towards me but I made it as a
weapon to continue my life. I worked hard so Furthermore, ex-convicts who lost their jobs
I could get through it all). (Roel, L0228- because of incarceration find reintegrating
0234) difficult. Finding work, as well as keeping a job is
tough for them. Being an ex-convict will remain
In addition, Manuel has a conviction for theft and on their record for the rest of their lives,
has confided that he has experienced discomfort complicating their journey outside prison bars.
with the way people react to him. He finds it Participants Anne and Roel have responded that
difficult to cope with the constant judgment he they have struggled to interact within society and
received for his past mistakes. Similarly, Charlie, had difficulty adjusting. Anne fought the urge to
who has been convicted of manslaughter, has be with her previous friends, similarly, Roel
shared that he felt isolated and ostracized by fought the temptation to use illegal drugs again.
those around him since his release. He has “Akoang ginalikayan ato kay ako lang mga
expressed that people often exhibit fear towards barkada, labi nag wala ko kabalo unsa ilang
him, which has made it challenging for him to mga binuhat basig madamay napud ko. (I
reintegrate into society. avoided my friends because I don’t know
what they are up to and I don’t want to get
“…sa unang gawas nako naa dayun mga involve again) (Anne, L088-090)
silingan mamisita sa among balay mangukit
ug naunsa akong kaso naa sad uban na Roel also mentioned another difficult habit he
makita nimo sa ilang mga nawung nga has developed when drinking alcohol. He used to
nahadlok dala panabi kay lagi kuyaw akong get out with a friend but now prefers to stay at
kaso. (Upon my release, my neighbors went home. Roel mentioned:
into our home asking about my case and
there were some who were afraid of me.) “…karon naga inom ko diri nalang sa balay
(Charlie, L0515-0520) pamilya ang kauban kay dili naman ko
pwede makit an sa gawas nga naga inom
The statements above are supported by many kay naka label naman sa mga tao nga inig
studies which have found that one of the main makit an ko nila sa gawas nag inom or
issues faced by these ex-convicts was about maabtan lang ko ug gabii or kadlawon sa
coping with the stigma that comes with being gawas moana na na sila nga nibalik ko sa
labelled as an ex-convict, often portraying them akong bisyo. (I only drink occasionally here
as criminals [4] Obatusin & Ritter-Williams, 2019; in my house because I can’t be seen in
Hirschfield & Piquero, [19] Chiricos et al., [20]. public places drinking due to the society
Several studies have proven that stigmatic label me as having a relapse in my
labelling and shaming cause social withdrawal addiction.) (p3, Roel, L0245-0256)
and exclusion, increasing the likelihood of
involvement in deviant peer groups [21,22,23]. Moreover, participants Mary Jane lost her
The study of Palgan and Apolinario (2022), business as a fish vendor in their community
supported the statements of the participants and she could not get some money to fund her
above that people's humiliation and criticism business.

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“…Nawala sa akoa akong negosyo sa families can support a family member who has
pangingisda. (I lost my business in selling been in prison due to shame.
fishes.) (Mary Jane, L019-020)
Mary Jane who loses his husband while being
Charlie lost his job as he was being convicted convicted; she now struggles to support her
and experienced difficulty finding one. family.
Additionally, Manuel also expressed his concern
about his struggles in finding a job as an ex- “Oo, wala man koy bana, syempre wala koy
convict. He works as a labourer in a corn mill in ginikanan. Naningkamot pud intawon ko sa
his neighbourhood where he gets minimum sarili nako para lang mabuhi akong pamilya.
wage after a long day of working. Dili ko magsalig sa akong igsuon. Problema
intawon nako may rag makasuroy may rag
dili. (Of course, since I don’t have a husband
“…mga upat ka bulan ko usa naka kita ug
anymore and I don’t have parents to rely
trabaho. Hastang lisuda kay singot ug dugo
with. I worked hard for myself to support my
kay mag abot jud aron mabuhi lang jud ko sa
family. I don’t want to rely on my siblings.
akong pag usab. Kay dili naman ko gusto
Being also a fish vendor now is hard, really)
mabalik pa didto sa prisohan. (It took me four
(Mary Jane L06-010)
months before someone hired me. I need to
hard work so that I could survive because I
Meanwhile, although Anne has a partner, she
don’t want to go back in prison.) (Manuel,
could not depend on him and she needed to step
L0667-0681)
up to put food on their table.
After being incarcerated, the structured prison life “…sa akoang bana (live in) pirmi ko molayas
was quickly replaced with a life of planning, kay tapulan, dili kabalo mangita ug paagi nga
decision-making, and project execution [24]. Ex- maka kwarta. Ako ang mangita ug pamaagi
offenders with a history of drug offences mao maulaw ko sa akong ginikanan. (I had a
expressed fear of leaving halfway of their homes hard time with my live-in partner and I always
because of the temptations of the community run away because he was lazy and he
[25]. Moreover, finding work is one of the most doesn’t find a way to provide our needs. And
challenging problems that ex-offenders face. Ex- I will be the one to work for us because it is
offenders confront four significant professional shameful to ask for my parents.) (Anne
barriers: (a) a lack of employability skills such as L0100-0103)
low education, poor training, and job experience
(Chen & Shields, 2020; Obatusin & Ritter- Manuel was neglected by his family while he was
Williams, [26] Ahmed & Lang, [27] Williams, in prison, but when he was liberated too, he
2007); (b) a poor attitude [28] (c) limited work struggled to communicate and gain their trust. He
options owing to employer prejudice and expressed that the rejection from his child and
stigmatization based on criminal record (Chen & loved one, made him lose his sense of worth. He
Shields, [28] Sheppard & Ricciardelli, [29] was hopeful but disheartened by his family's
Ricciardelli & Mooney, [30] Harrison & Schehr, action.
[31] On the other hand, ex-offenders cannot
remove or regulate several of these professional “Akong anak dili na modu-ol sa akoa, akoang
restrictions on their own [28]. mga igsoon ug akong mama ug papa ug ang
inahan sa akoang anak. Nawala ko sa pang
3.1.3 Emotional and material support huna-huna pag biya sa inahan sa akong
anak. Naka huna huna jud ko mag hikog ato
Support was significant for ex-convicts who have kay wala najud koy puwang sa kalibutan gani
suffered while in jail and until their release. Even kay tungod napriso ko. (crying) grabeng sakit
if they have been given the opportunity to see the ato kay siya ra baya akong gihandom inig
light and rebuild their lives outside of jail, these maka gawas ko, siya rajud akong ulian.
ex-convicts will find it impossible to reintegrate Unya kay dili naman siya wala koy mahimo.
without emotional and material support. (My child wouldn’t seek for me, even my
However, support is uncommon, especially for siblings and my father and mother and
guilty individuals, and receiving support from especially the mother of my child, they could
relatives is extremely rare. Participants ask their not accept me. I have thoughts of committing
families for assistance in reorganizing their lives suicide because I didn’t have a place in this
and reintegrating successfully. However, not all world since I was imprisoned. (crying) I am in

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great pain that time, she was the only one I As a result, when they were discharged, some
thought I have when I get out. Then she family members were concerned about having
doesn’t want me back and I couldn’t do their relative back in the family. Some individuals
anything about it.) (Manuel, L0694- come home to find their family members no
0704) longer trust them [24,34].

Life became tough for ex-convicts when their 3.2 Repercussions of Jail Time on Ex-
immediate relatives lacked the financial capital to convicts
reintegrate them into society. Ex-offenders were
barely getting support from their society and One of the objectives of this research was to
families. Other than that, the ex-convicts discover the changes that ex-offenders
themselves were ashamed to ask for help with experienced from their jail time to liberation. The
money and their needs for their families [32,33]. repercussions of jail time on ex-convicts
In cases where family members avoided impacted the lives of ex-offenders inside and
contacting their convicted loved one, as they do outside the prison. The following themes
not want them back in their homes. In most emerged in accordance with the responses of the
cases, family members ostracized and shamed participants: (1) Restored Faith, (2) Reflective
ex-convicts despite the efforts to strengthen the Thinking and Practice, (3) Emotional Distress.
bonds, some ex-convicts faced rejection from Based on the results, apart from the emotional
family members. Family members were hostile distress they struggled with, faith restoration was
because of the preexisting issues and the one of the emerged changes of the participants
stigmatization that the ex-convicts may have from jail time to liberation, along with reflective
caused the family. The arrest and imprisonment thinking and practice. The themes can be
provided some family members with a reprieve observed in the following figures.
from dealing with a problematic family member.

Fig. 2. Theme illustration of repercussions of jail time on ex-convicts

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3.2.1 Restored faith sa akong paminsar labi nag mapildi ko, lisud
kayo ibawi jud labaw nag dakog pildi mausab
The ex-offenders stated that spiritual activities jud akong kinaiya. (I always pray to God,
and their value were part of their recovery gave thanks for giving me another chapter in
process. Participation in religious activities life, for me to change all of my mistakes
highlighted the spiritual connection that gives because before, I don’t believe in God, but
way to ex-convicts to share their experiences now, I always thanked him and avoided
with others, to know the almighty, and as a way myself getting involved in any gambling
to have a stronghold between family activities because it is the reason why I went
relationships. Thus, spirituality brought changes berserk. I can’t understand my emotions
to ex-convicts to restore their faith despite being when I lost (in gambling), I can’t control
incarcerated. Below are the participants' myself.)” (Charlie, L0540-0550)
statements and responses in accordance with
restored faith. These responses confirmed the value of
spirituality in prison. Hallett et al. (2017)
Roel stated how incarceration changed him from emphasized how religious behavior and spiritual
becoming more enthusiastic and responsible with learning helped individuals reshape their sense
his family and went more often to church with of purpose and belonging to society. The value of
them. Similarly, Anna shared how imprisonment spirituality in prison, as emphasized by prison
brought back her faith due to faith-based chaplains, a view that is also backed by the
activities conducted inside the prison, and how it minimal research that has been done on the
motivated her to spread the words of God. Anna efficacy of prison-based spirituality programs
confirmed: [35]. Petersilia, 2003). The few faith-based re-
“Daghan, kay didto sulod sa prisohan naga entry programs that have been studied also
bible sharing mi unya kana kay wala jud ko emphasize the importance of spiritual connection
na na agi-an diri sa gawas, didto nako na as a source of direction during recovery [36].
experience sa sulod (prisohan). Maka hatag Roman et al., 2017). Spirituality is an essential
nakog advice sa uban tao. Unya naga basa aspect of human life that should be considered in
pud kog salmo sa sulod maong maka share the context of someone incarcerated. Inmates
ko sa uban kung unsa akong mga nakat- who participated in religious activities were less
unan labina sa mga nay problema. (I anxious and unhappy than those who withdrew
changed a lot…because inside the prison we themselves from the spiritual life available
have this activity, such as bible sharing and I (Skowroski & Domalska, 2017).
didn’t experience it in my previous life before 3.2.2 Reflective thinking and practice
I got imprisoned, and I only experienced it
when I was inside the prison. I could give Ex-offenders were found to reflect on their
advice to other people that have committed mistakes and practice avoiding
problems. Then, I read God’s words, in that I unfavourable outcomes. Further, the responses
could share it with my co-inmates.)” (Anne, emphasized how imprisonment moulds ex-
L0109-0115) convicts' attitudes to rely more on the rules within
and outside the prison. It explains how
Additionally, participant Charlie shared his imprisonment changes the ex-convicts'
insights brought on by imprisonment which has thinking and actions to be more careful and
made him pray and be more thankful for the reflective.
chance to change his life. Rectifying his past
mistakes, even for the fact that he was not a Participant Mary Jane became more reflective in
believer back then, has made his experience every action she made after the imprisonment by
more satisfying. He stated that: listening to her siblings advise her not to get
involved with drugs again. Furthermore, Roel
“Pag ampo kanunay sa Ginoo para aning ika highlighted his experiences brought by
duhang higayun na iyang gihatag nako para incarceration to his life. He shared how regretful
mausab akong mga sayup kay kaniadto wala he was to his family, how emotionally
man ko kailag Ginoo puros raman binuang overwhelmed he felt at that time, and how
sulod sa akong utok karun mupasalamat jud disappointed he was in himself. After he was
ko kanunay niya ug galikay nasad ko mag freed from prison, he shared the immense joy he
apil apil anang sugal kay mao nay felt through it and how this has made him see the
makapainit sa akong ulo unya di ko kasabot world in a better light. He shared that:

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“Maka ingon ko nga sa kagahi sa akong ulo, subjective, bear the consequences of their acts,
nag mahay ko kay ngano wala ko naminaw stay busy, and participate in religious activities
sa ilahang mga tambag sa akoa. Lisud [38]. Hence, imprisonment influenced every ex-
storya walay tukma na word or sentence na offender's actions, way of thinking and decision-
ma describe nako akong gibati sa pag ka making. Moreover, ex-offenders with a history of
priso. Sa pag hatag sa higayon na nakagwas drug offences expressed fear of leaving halfway
ko walay tukma sa kalipay akong nasinati out of their homes because of the temptations
unya dili nako kabalo unsa akong buhaton of the community. Singapore After-Care
pero atleast nakita nako ang taas na pag Association [25] in which ex-offenders feared that
lantaw, nakakita nakog kahoy, nakakita the community would influence them to use
nakog bulan. (I blame myself because of my drugs again. This resulted in them reflecting on
hardheadedness; I blame myself for not their past experiences and practising what it
listening to their advice. I can’t even put up in taught them.
a word or in sentence of how I felt when I get
in prison. And when I was given a chance to 3.2.3 Emotional distress
be free it was the happiest things that could
ever happen in my life and that day, I don’t The prior theme has indicated favourable results
know what to do next but at least I was able regarding incarceration as a means of
to see the outside.)” (Roel, L0310-0322) rehabilitation for former prisoners, yet the
experience of being incarcerated remains one
Consequently, due to the incarceration, Anne fraught with challenges and hardships. This
mentioned that it changed her perspective of study discovered that ex-offenders experienced
herself. She was a hard-headed type of person emotional instability while incarcerated, such as
and prideful, but afterwards she became more loneliness, stress, overthinking, and longing.
understanding and patient. She mentioned: That being said, the impact of incarceration on
ex-convicts was overwhelming.
“Sauna kay maldita man ko tapos dili ko
naga paubos pero karon kay kabalo nako Participant Mary Jane shared her experience of
mag pa ubos, mag pa ilob unya taas taas na how distressed she was for missing her children
akong pag sabot. (It changes my view and grandchildren at home. Mary Jane also
because before I was ill-mannered then I highlighted how she used to overthink about
have excessive pride but now I am more whether she would be free or not. Anne, on the
patient, and understands the situation.)” other hand, shared a dilemma of having her mind
(Anne, L0132-0135) on her family outside while being unable to do
anything due to the fact that she is inside the
Meanwhile, Manuel has also shared how it prison. She also mentioned how unstable she
changed him. It made him realize not to make was psychologically. She stated that:
the same mistakes again. On the other hand, “dili nako maiwasan maka huna huna kay
Charlie, mentioned that due to his imprisonment, akong lawas naa sa sulod pero akong huna
he avoided getting himself into trouble. huna naa sa gawas pirnaminte, naa sa
akong pamilya. Sige rakog sakit didtoa sa
“Sa karun makaingun jud kog dako akong sulod kay tungod sa depression. (I can’t help
pag usab galikay nakog gubot, ug mas to think about my family outside. I would
gahunahuna nako sa akong pamilya ug always think of them and I was sick because
unsay dangatan ug makahatag napud kog of depression.)” (Anne, L0116-0120)
problema sa ilaha. (For now, I can say that I
change a lot I avoid myself in any trouble Meanwhile, Manuel stated how incarceration
and I think more about my family for the brought so much distress in his life. Manuel
consequences if I gave them another became psychologically challenged within the
problem.)” (Charlie, L0561-L0565) prison, thinking about his mistakes. He even
shared how he used to wander in the comfort
This finding was parallel to the research room and just stay there, losing his mind, and
suggesting that the jails' unpleasant climate had thinking about cutting his life short. He confirmed
positive benefits on Filipino elder prisoners [37]. that:
Additionally, jail experiences may be beneficial or
harmful to them because, to cope with the prison “Na depress ko kay sige kog huna huna,
environment, the participant opted to become ngano kaya nabuhat kona no. tungod jud sa

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pag salig nako sa akong mga amigo ba, ako upon release help them accept and continue
ray na adto sa sulod. Pag sulod nako, their lives after being in prison. It gives them the
naabtan pag mga semana kapin didto rajud energy to look forward to their lives and inspires
ko sulod sa cr nag hinuktok. Nawala nako sa them to avoid and ignore negative thoughts and
pang isip. Boot huna-hunaon pwede nako opinions about them. Their coping mechanisms
mag pa kamatay sa sulod. (I got depressed also assist them in seeing the fact that they can
because I overthink why did I did that thing. It only rely on themselves to survive with the aid of
was probably because I trusted my friends their families. The following themes emerged in
and I am the only one that got jailed. When I accordance with the responses of the
got imprison almost one month, I was inside participants: (1) Social and Spiritual, (2) Mindful
the comfort room wandering. I lost my mind. acceptance of the current situation. Based on the
To be honest I can kill myself inside the participants’ responses, their social or family and
cell.)” (Manuel, L0746-0753) spiritual life were found to be one of the coping
mechanisms of the ex-convicts along with
The findings backed up Harries' [39] assertion
mindful acceptance of their current situation. Fig.
that solitary confinement is a human example of
3. depicts these themes.
social isolation that causes prisoners distress,
and she emphasized the importance of
3.3.1 Social and spiritual
connectedness or good social interaction and
relationships with everyone, such as family
Individuals' effective re-entry requires social
members who visit them, correctional officers,
support; however, little is understood about how
and other inmates. The studies also show that
it works or how individual and systemic factors
prisoners suffer emotionally, with their emotions
influence it. Understanding why social support is
changing and influencing their judgments, as well
crucial for those who have been convicted is
as their sentiments of pain and pleasure, hatred,
critical because they may have a different
pity, and fear toward their fellow inmates [38].
reintegration experience due to the nature of
When people who have their rights taken away
their crime and post-conviction restrictions.
have negative views, they display self-pity, blame
Spiritual support has a significant impact on the
themselves, and feel discriminated against.
ex-offenders to change the way they think about
Shammas [40] elaborated on the considerable
their lives. It is also the most essential support
harms associated with the frustrations or
that ex-offenders learn inside the prison up until
deprivations that accompany the loss of freedom,
their release because it strengthens their faith in
such as the absence of heterosexual
God and leads them to cope with their situations.
relationships, isolation from the free community,
Below are the statements of the participants on
withholding of commodities and services, and so
how their social and spiritual life became their
on.
coping mechanism for re-entering society. Below
3.3 Coping Mechanism of Ex-convicts are the statements of the participants about how
they coped with the challenges they had been
Coping mechanisms play an essential role in ex- through after they were liberated.
offenders lives because their various strategies

Fig. 3. Theme illustration of coping mechanism of ex-convicts

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Anne’s coping mechanism was her spiritual belief The benefits of social support for ex-offenders
in life, she stated that through God and prayers, have been documented in the literature, including
she coped with the struggles she had been a decrease in recidivism rates [48]. This also
through. assists the ex-inmate to lessen suicidal,
depressive, guilt, and shameful sentiments. As a
“Pag-ampo, gina-ampo lang jud nako sa result, the inmate spreads the gospel both within
Ginoo akong mga problema didto kay wala and outside the prison walls. Since purpose may
man koy lain na madooloan.(I always pray, I be defined as "an open-ended readiness to face
pray to God all of my problems because in present uncertainty with a hope for good or evil,"
there I have no one.)” (Anne, LO144-LO146) programs like Prison Fellowship and Inner
Change ignite an inmate's purpose, and others in
Moreover, Charlie had the same coping as Anne the community challenge the inmate's intrinsic
through God they overcame their challenges. purpose. Scholars agree that social support is a
Aside from God, Charlie also found his family as vital tool for managing penitentiary clients and
his coping and shared how important his family that these persons may be a key aspect in
was to him. He says: minimizing criminal behaviour [49]. According to
recent research, views of family support can aid
“Wala may laing akong gidangpan ang Ginoo in minimizing delinquency, and beliefs of
rajud ug ang akong pamilya kay dugay sad instrumental family support, in particular, can
ko na priso daghan kaykog gimahayan pero even serve to mitigate the negative impacts of
wala mao naman jud na nahitabo naman ang arrest [51].
karun nalang ang importante para nako. (No
one else but only God and my family, I was 3.3.2 Mindful acceptance of the current
in prison for a long time and I have so many situation
regrets but I can’t change the past and the
most important for me is what I have right It describes the positive attitude of ex-convicts
now.)” (Charlie, L0581-0585) towards other opinions about them by accepting
the consequences they get outside prison. It is
On the other hand, Roel found comfort from his also important and helpful for ex-convicts to
family during his jail time. Their small actions of continue their lives without thinking about the
visitation have elicited so much joy in the judgments they get from others and only focusing
participants. He appreciated his family’s efforts on their current situation to make a change for
during his incarceration. Roel stated that: their lives and the people surrounding them. Ex-
convicts have developed a way of coping.
“Akong pamilya, sila nanay, tatay ug akong Individuals who have been released from prison
mga manghud, sila dodong. Kay didto pako have developed a technique to help them cope
maihap raman gud nga pwede sila maka with the challenges of returning to normal life.
adto didto. Kanang inig abot sa akong mga This involves focusing on the happiness they
igsoon kay dle nako ma-explain ang kalipay experienced when they were released and
na niduaw sila nako. Sa pag gawas nako reunited with their families, which helps to reduce
didto nako na kita na in times ma dapa ka, their anxiety and fear.
ma failure ko kay ang mag alalay rajud kay
akong pamilya rajud, wala nay lain. Ang mo Being mindful was the coping mechanism of
andam sa tanan kanang naa pirnaminte sa Roel, despite that he faced struggles upon his
akong kiliran kay akoa rang pamilya. (My liberation, it did not stop him from going forward
family, my mother, father and my younger in his life. He did not let his imprisonment define
siblings. Back when I was in jail, they often his entire life. And in fact, he truly believed that
visit me and when they visit me, I could not God has a plan for his life. Roel responded that:
explain the happiness I’ve felt. When I got
out, I have realized that in the moment I “Ako man gud na klase na tao na dili ko mag
failed, my family were the one helping me, pa apekto ba. Wala kaayu ko ga huna-huna.
no one else did. The one that prepares Ang akoa lang go with the flow, kung unsa
everything for me and the people always ang dagan, okay, kung unsa ang ihatag sa
beside me were my family.)” (Roel, L0354- Ginoo. Wala na nako gihuna-huna nga na
0364) priso ko. Ang ako kay mag padayun lang gud
wala nako gina base ang akong kinabuhi sa
akong pag ka priso. Kung unsa ang ihatag

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sa Ginoo, mao akoa. Ginoo raman gud tanan release, their preparations for their family
gud akong gina sandigan. Kumbaga sa confirmed that they value their family above
Ginoo ko naga kuha ug kusog aron maka everything else. Their willingness to fulfill their
cope up ko sa tanan. Wala nakoy paki-alam shortfall and make up for lost time indicated that
sa mga nag judge nako, ug kung husgahan they have changed to become a better and more
bako sa mga tao. (I am the kind of person responsible person, as indicated by a study by
that doesn’t get affected by others’ judgment, Pansag [41]. Grateful people enjoy even minor
I don’t think it thoroughly. I go with the flow I joys so that when they face adversity or pain,
just go with life and God’s plan. I don’t mind they remain strong and realize there is always
that I once got imprison, for me, it is to wisdom behind the tragedy (Maulidah, 2016).
continue and I doesn’t base my entire life in Gratitude is uplifting, makes you feel good, and
my past being convicted. I accept whatever can even help you achieve your goals. Positive
God’s plan to me. I lean everything to God. It emotions, particularly thankfulness, can motivate
is God who provides me strength to cope up people to participate in self-improvement
everything. I don’t care if people were practices, according to Armenta et al. (2017).
judging me)” (Roel, L0375-0387)
3.4 Insights of Ex-convicts After their
On the other hand, Charlie focused on supporting Imprisonment
his family especially his child, he said:
Research question 4 (four) was about the ex-
“Karun nga laya nako mas focused ko sa convicts’ reflective observations about their
pangitag pangwarta kay labi na ron naa koy insight into their lives as they battled inside and
anak mawala tanan kalisud basta masulod outside prison. These show in their new thought
sa akong utok nga naa koy gibuhing anak and perspectives in life. The following themes
mao raman na (Now that I have been emerged from the participants' responses: (1)
released. I focused on my financial income Family ties and emotional support, were found as
since I have a child that needs my support. an insight of the ex-convicts’ because of the
All of my struggles seem to disappear when I incarceration. Moreover, it shows that as they
think of my child)” (Charlie, L0586-590) fight to re-enter society, these ex-convicts opt to
view the bright side of their lives in light of their
It is a positive Filipino cultural value to see a (2) Renewed Faith in God. Below is Fig. 4, which
thread of positivity in an otherwise negative displays the themes of family ties, emotional
reality. Despite all the obstacles, the participant support, and renewed faith in God among ex-
remained optimistic for a bright future. After convicts.

Fig. 4. Theme illustration of Insights of ex-convicts after their imprisonment

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3.4.1 Family ties and emotional support sa makagawas ko wala jud ko kasinati ug
pangkwenta gikan sa ilaha bisan klaro sa
Family is the most essential thing you could ever ilang nawong ang kalisud. (My family is the
have in most important for me right now, because
they didn’t leave me even though we
Filipino society. Based on the transcripts, some of experienced crisis during that time (my
the ex-offenders had close-knit relationships with imprisoned), but they still continue helping me
their families and desired to keep these close until I got release. I didn’t experience to be
relationships for they offer strong emotional left behind even though they were tired.)”
support. They also claimed that their (Charlie L0641-0648).
imprisonment taught them the value of their family
and learned to respect their opinion. These statements from the respondents revealed
that families, especially in the Philippines, usually
The statement below shows that upon the accept their family members recently released
liberation of these ex-convicts, they found support from prison. The committed crime would be
from their families. Even though Anne was unimportant to the family when one part of a
ashamed to ask for money from her family she family sticks together. Blood is always denser
was grateful that her family was her strength than water [41]. The definition of "family support"
during and after her imprisonment. She decided is too broad and lacks precision both conceptually
to focus her attention on her child and stay away and methodologically. The concept of familial
from using (drugs) again. support involves a combination of emotional and
practical connections, serving as a fundamental
“…karon kay naka focused nako sa akong component of the societal structure [42,43]. As
pamilya, sa akong anak. (Now I focus on my stated in the essay published by the Michigan
family and to my child)” (Anne L0171-172) Department of Corrections [44] a good and
supportive family relationship is one of the most
Roel used to be distant from his family, but after significant elements to consider in avoiding crime.
being imprisoned, he learned to value their By assisting convicts in forming social
gatherings and occasions over going out with relationships, criminal behavior can be avoided
friends. [45].

“…bahin sa akong pamilya kanang gamay na 3.4.2 Renewed faith in god

okasyon kay gina tagaan nako ug
importansya nag focus nako sa akong Renewing one's faith does not suggest that their
pamilya karon kay naa jud sila pirmi sa akong previous beliefs were incorrect or invalid. Rather,
kiliran biskan katong naa pako sa sulod. it serves as a way to prioritize what truly matters
Unya karon gina tagaan napud nakog in life - Jesus and one's relationship with God. By
importansaya ang ilahang mga pag tambag renewing their mind with His teachings every day,
sa akoa unlike sa una tong wala pako na individuals can maintain a strong connection with
priso. (As of my family, I give more God both during and after their time in prison.
importance to them even if it was just a This can lead to a more profound and meaningful
simple occasion because they were there connection than they have ever experienced
when I was convicted. And I also give before.
importance to their advices unlike before I got
convicted.)” (Roel, L0455-0463). Roel has developed a steadfast faith and openly
expressed that he attended church every Sunday
Charlie held onto the belief that his family was his to devote time to his spiritual practice. In contrast,
stronghold, regardless of any hardships he faced. Anne had previously distanced herself from God
Even during his imprisonment, he realized the and had never visited a church until she faced
importance of family as they never abandoned him conviction. However, her time in prison proved to
and continue to support him afterwards. be a turning point, as it drew her closer to God
and reignited her faith. Presently, Anne regularly
“…paghatag jud ug importansya sa pamilya reads the Bible and devotes time to her spiritual
mao ra mana silay mutambayayong nimo ug journey.
magkina unsa wala jud ko nilay biyai bisan
paman tuod gapait mi labaw na kaniadto pero “Daghan. Sauna dili ko naga basa ug bible
ana-a ra gihapun sila nitabang nako hantod ug dili pud ko naga simba pero karon kay naa

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nakoy panahon sa Ginoo, sa pag ampo. (A the challenges, such as their social and spiritual
lot. Before I don’t read the bible and I don’t go life, and mindful acceptance of their current
to church but now I always give time to God, situation, showing their resilience, Faith, and
to pray.)” (Anne, L0189-0191) repercussions for their violations. As the absence
of their freedom, imprisonment became insightful
Charlie has exhibited contrition for his prior learning to them to have a stronghold between
mistakes and professes to have sought family ties and emotional support, as well as
redemption during his period of incarceration. He renewed their faith in God. Therefore, the impact
maintains that his faith in a divine being has not of their incarceration was not bad at all, instead, it
wavered and yearns to reassure having faith in became a stepping stone for the ex-convicts to
God means he will never abandon him. learn, change, and become a better version of
themselves.
“sige nakog pangayo ug pasaylo sa Ginoo ga
ampo ko kanunay niya atong naa pako sa The ex-convicts are burdened by their criminal
prisohan ug hantod karun, kay bisan ug unsa records regardless of the nature of their criminal
pa diay ka kasalbahis di jud ka niya talikdan offense as societal biases and stigma hinder their
basta naa rakay pagtuo sa iyaha. (I keep reintegration. Thus, rehabilitation interventions
praying to him until now because even how must be frequently implemented at different
bad you are, he still helps you and never phases of criminal justice engagement. In caveat
leave you behind, if you just believe and have by punitive measures such as confinement or
faith in him)” (Charlie, L06625-0630) probation. In the correctional settings in the
Philippines, the local and national governments
By choosing to be a Christ-follower, one chooses should reinforce programs addressing at least
to set aside and rid oneself of prior desires (Van one of the subsuming risk factors related to their
der Walt, 2017). This also assisted the ex-inmate incarceration. These factors may range from a
in lessening suicidal, depressive, guilt, and continuum of mental health issues, social and
shame sentiments. As a result, the inmate spread spiritual support, stigma management and
the gospel both within and outside the prison reintegration, substance use, education level,
walls. Since purpose can be defined as "an open- and/or employment status. Furthermore, the
ended readiness to face present uncertainty with government should provide an alternative
a hope for good or evil," programs like Prison intervention targeting those people surrounding
Fellowship and Inner Change ignite an inmate's the ex-convict. With enrichment and intervention
purpose, and others in the community challenge sessions as to how they can help these
the innate. A recent study indicates that the individuals. The community must be educated
protective effects of religion, particularly that these ex-convicts have already paid for their
Christianity, can be essential in suicide prevention crimes inside the prison and have been liberated.
[50]. A former inmate's desire to transgress again
is reduced by living a life that acknowledges one's The main goal of social reintegration programs is
sins and how Christ pardoned them (Das, 2018). to offer support and guidance to offenders in
order to help them stop committing crimes. These
4. CONCLUSION programs aim to help them successfully
reintegrate into society and prevent them from
Thus, this research focused on the repercussions returning to criminal behavior again. The
of jail time on ex-convicts incarcerated for criminal researchers suggest that governments and
offenses. The repercussion of being in jail brings policymakers should establish a re-entry program
emotional distress to them as they pay the for ex-convicts to help prepare them for re-
consequences of their actions. However, their entering society. Consecutively, after their release
incarceration has become a tool to renew their needs assessment should be utilized to gauge
faith and become more careful of their actions. their capabilities and skills for their reintegration.
Life after imprisonment is challenging yet hopeful. Scaffolding in their weak areas should be
Ex-offenders face discrimination, stigma, and lack implemented to increase their quality of life.
of emotional and material support from their loved
ones, making it difficult for them to re-enter Moreover, this study has not yet discovered the
society. Despite these challenges, ex-convicts entirety of the lived experiences of the ex-
found ways to cope and learn from these convicts. Thus, it is highly recommended to
experiences. The coping mechanisms provide further discuss the phenomenological
them hope and a positive mindset in overcoming experiences of ex-offenders by using many

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