Stigmatization and Employment Problems Among Formerly Incarcerated Individuals

Abstract

Stigmatization is a condition that negatively affects individuals' lives, causing them to face numerous problems both in their family life and in society. Individuals who are not favorably viewed in terms of social visibility—such as those with special needs or those who are convicted or formerly convicted—frequently encounter stigmatization. In such situations, individuals with special needs are often viewed with pity, while convicted or formerly convicted individuals are regarded with fear.

After prison, the main issues individuals face are stigmatization and employment-related problems. For individuals involved in crime to reintegrate into society and complete the rehabilitation process, employment is particularly important. Based on this, the purpose of this research is to examine the stigmatization and employment problems faced by formerly incarcerated men during their reintegration into society.

This study was conducted using the phenomenological method, a qualitative research approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 formerly incarcerated men. The data were collected using the snowball sampling method, a form of purposive sampling. The obtained data were analyzed using content analysis with the help of the AI program Gemini 2.5 Pro, resulting in three main themes and nine subcategories.The findings of the study show that individuals experience multidimensional problems such as social exclusion, unemplyoyment, and uncertainty about the future after release. These problems pose risks that may lead individuals to reoffend. Based on the findings, it is recommended to implement vocational training courses for former convicts, create rehabilitation programs, and develop employment policies targeting formerly incarcerated individuals.