Abstract:
This research was a qualitative phenomenological study that inquired into the
experiences of ex-convicts seeking to reintegrate into the society. Data was collected
by means of open-ended questionnaires. Six ex-convicts were interviewed. The study
reveals that ex-convicts face stigmatization and segregation as they sought to
reintegrate into the society. The economic/material needs that have been observed as
major themes in the study are unemployment, family disownment of ex-convicts upon
their release and their lack of skills. It has also been revealed that Philemon Ministry
tends not to be holistic in helping ex-convicts to reintegrate successfully into the
society. It was recommended among other things that the Philemon Ministry be more
holistic in helping ex-convicts to reintegrate, especially focusing on the barriers that
hamper the reintegration process.
