ABSTRACT
The volume of studies into desistance has grown dramatically in recent years. Much of this research has focused on the internal dynamics of desistance such as decision-making, choice and restraint. Bringing together leading figures and drawing upon case studies from around the world, this book seeks to fill a vacuum in the contemporary literature on desistance by considering processes and practices at a societal level that influence how and why people desist from crime.
Beginning with an outline of what is known about how social, cultural and economic structures shape desistance from crime, this book proceeds to explore studies of desistance in countries such as the UK, Brazil, France, Israel, Ireland, Sweden and Chile. These studies touch on variations by ethnicity, the nature of the criminal justice system, economic cycles, gender, religious belief systems and the use of time and space. Policy matters relating to desistance such as the rehabilitation and supervision of former offenders are also explored.
This book will be invaluable reading to students and scholars of criminology, sociology and social studies engaged in studies of desistance, criminology, criminal justice, victimology, penology and probation.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
part I|27 pages
Setting the scene
chapter 1|25 pages
The architecture of desistance
part II|67 pages
Cross-cultural stories of desistance and rehabilitation
chapter 3|20 pages
Structural ‘ladders’ and the female path to desistance
chapter 4|21 pages
Exploring processes of desistance by ethnic status
part III|130 pages
New places and new topics in desistance research
chapter 5|23 pages
Structural changes and desistance in a developing country
chapter 6|18 pages
How does the penal system and criminal involvement impact the desistance process?
chapter 7|21 pages
Desistance and the Parisian probation service
chapter 10|24 pages
Offending, victimisation and desistance
part IV|51 pages
Turning ideas into workable policies