The Architecture of Desistance

Abstract

While identity is well established in both the recovery and the desistance literature as a critical component in reintegration and rehabilitation, there is an increasing focus on group membership and the underlying changes in norms, values and beliefs that stem from and help to structure positive social identities. This chapter links transitions in social identity to social capital based on the assumption that recovery and desistance require not only transitions in group memberships but also on moving from excluded groups to those who have access to community capital and community resources that can afford opportunities for reintegration. This chapter uses two examples, one prison based and one community based, to demonstrate how operationalising social capital, community engagement and social identity can lead to tangible benefits that not only reduce the likelihood of reoffending and/or substance abuse but also improve health, wellbeing and access to community assets. Connectedness to pro-social groups supports the development of social and community capital, which inspires hope in individuals that change is possible, provides role models to guide this process and facilitates a transformation towards a positive identity and reintegration.