Representations of identity, and the end of sentence critical issues: a research

Abstract

Self-representation is a crucial topic to analyze and address when dealing with the concepts of prison
release and social reintegration. Clinical evidence show that time spent in prison can lead to an inner
transformation in self-representation, impacting the behavior and relational abilities of prisoners as
well. Adjustment is a key element to guarantee self-preservation. Imprisoned individuals must adapt
their identity to the new environment to embrace the new rules, norms and values.
Nonetheless, being released from prison represents itself another challenge. In fact, it can be a critical
moment because prisoners must reacquire the identity they had before incarceration and the norms
and habits of the society.
The aim of the present study is to explore self-identity representations through explorative analysis of
narratives retrieved at the end of psychological interviews in an advanced treatment penal institute,
located in the hinterland of Milan.