Negotiating bereavement and loss: Influencing persistence and desistance from crime

Natalie Rutter

doi:10.1177/17488958211016848

Abstract

Much previous research has considered experiences of bereavement and loss in a prison-based setting. This overshadows the nature of bereavement within the context of community supervision and probation delivery, resulting in inadequate explorations of the potential link to persistence and/or desistance from crime. Research into desistance has predominantly focused on relationships with those who are still alive. This article evidences an emergent theme of bereavement experiences within the context of probation delivery, relationships and desistance. It draws upon narrative research undertaken within a Community Rehabilitation Company in the north of England, collected as part of a doctoral thesis. Evidence demonstrates the similarities between the process of desistance and that of bereavement with the narratives of men and women reiterating how bereavement can influence the onset of criminal or risk-taking behaviour whilst highlighting emergent evidence on how bereavement can disrupt desistance. This enables the article to highlight the importance of resilience in the process of both bereavement and desistance.

Highlights

Bereavement, and loss, is experienced by all of us, with different responses and effects
As previous research into desistance has focused on male perspectives and experiences, this article offers an important integration of knowledge across gender to create a stronger understanding of desistance
The findings presented in this article derive from wider doctoral research which explored the gendered role of relational networks in the process of desistance for individuals subject to a period of community supervision within a Community Rehabilitation Company

Summary

Introduction

Bereavement, and loss, is experienced by all of us, with different responses and effects. Recognising the role of trauma, emotion and attachment can reiterate how bereavement can influence the onset of criminal and/or risk-taking behaviour, alongside highlighting how this can disrupt desistance. If we are to understand these wide-ranging experiences of bereavement and loss, and the potential influence on desistance, it is important that evidence is sympathetic to the role of trauma, emotion and attachment to support resilience.

Results

Conclusion