TRAUMA, CRIME, AND JUSTICE: A CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF STRUCTURAL INEQUALITIES AND RECIDIVISM

Abstract

This qualitative study critically examines the intricate interplay between trauma, structural inequalities, and recidivism within the criminal justice system. By synthesizing secondary data from seminal works, the research explores how Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) influence criminal behavior and contribute to patterns of recidivism globally. The study highlights the often-overlooked gendered dimensions of trauma, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by female offenders and the role of reintegration support in mitigating recidivism. It delves into the systemic impacts of societal institutions, reflecting elements of human evolutionary history and how these perpetuate trauma and anger within Western criminal justice systems. Additionally, the research investigates the influence of personality traits on criminal behavior, shaped by both genetic and environmental factors. The transformative potential of restorative justice diversion is explored as a structural health intervention aimed at addressing trauma and reducing recidivism. The findings advocate for a comprehensive approach to justice reform that prioritizes healing, rehabilitation, and equity, challenging conventional punitive measures and promoting a more humane and effective response to crime. This study contributes to the broader discourse on crime and justice, offering insights that inform holistic interventions within the criminal justice system.