2023 Desistance
Desistance—or the gradual reduction in criminal behavior over time—measures the journey toward ending offending behavior. Essential components of desistance include altering behavior, self‑identity, and relationships with individuals and systems, yet this is a challenging endeavor. Consequently, outcomes often remain unseen for years following incarceration, underscoring the lengthy process that authentically mirrors reentry realities.[1]
Behavioral desistance entails engaging in non‑offending conduct. The process of behavior change requires considerable time. Along this journey, markers or indicators of desistance and success become apparent. Individuals engaged in behavioral desistance typically exhibit less severe and less frequent involvement with the criminal justice system. For instance, returning to custody due to a technical parole violation significantly differs from a return prompted by a new felony conviction.
RISE categorizes individuals in behavioral desistance based on reduced and less severe interactions with the criminal justice system over time. As of the end of 2023, 96 % of released RISE graduates have refrained from new felonious behavior since their release from incarceration, demonstrating progress toward desistance. Additionally, 79 % of released RISE graduates have abstained from offending behavior entirely, indicating no new felony convictions or parole violations. Notably, nearly 75 % of those returning for a parole violation did so due to a technical rather than criminal violation.
Identity desistance involves cultivating a new, non‑offending sense of self. This transformation becomes evident through changes in criminal thought patterns, self‑efficacy, goal achievement, feelings of hope, and engagement with supportive networks. Despite systemic and individual obstacles faced by the system‑impacted population, many are achieving identity desistance.
In 2023, RISE introduced the use of the TCU Criminal Thinking Scales among individuals receiving reentry services. Initial data reveals that individuals entering reentry programsstill harbor lingering criminal thought patterns, with a median score of 22 out of 50. Subscales indicate sensitivity to the impact of their offenses and a sense of accountability. These data points suggest the internalization of a new, non‑offending identity.[3]
RISE graduates also exhibit a decrease in criminal thought over time, with the average criminal thinking score decreasing after approximately seven months of engagement with reentry services. Further measures of identity desistance will be explored in 2024.
Relational desistance is a distinct form of desistance wherein control lies with others. It pertains to recognizing change and being accepted into new prosocial and relational environments that foster a sense of belonging. An exemplary instance of relational desistance is the integration of this population into the workforce and previously restricted industries. On average, 87 % of released RISE graduates are employed, signifying the acknowledgment of their transformation and their capacity to be productive employees. Relational desistance is also evident in the number of RISE graduates assuming leadership roles, both within and outside correctional facilities.[2]
Graduates from the RISE Business Academy find acceptance in the entrepreneurial sphere, while incarcerated graduates are frequently chosen for leadership roles in correctional facilities, including peer facilitation, club presidency, and residential mentorship positions. Additional measures piloted in 2024 aim to enhance quantitative data on relational desistance and its evolution over time.
At RISE, our aim is for all individuals to break free from cycles of incarceration. We empower system‑impacted individuals with the skills and support necessary to alter behavior and develop into positive, prosocial members fully integrated into the community. Year after year, RISE demonstrates a tangible impact on the lives of individuals returning from incarceration, with many effectively breaking the cycle of incarceration for good.
“After taking RISE, I’m more prepared to go and be successful when I get out. It’s made me feel more comfortable asking for help! I fully believe that with the support I’ve gotten and will continue to receive, I’ll be a successful person and the kind of person I really want to be.”— RISE Graduate
