Exploring the absence of social capital in entrenching recidivism amongst male and female inhabitants of Hanover park, western cape, South Africa

Abstract

In this study, I explore recidivism, an ‘uncontrollable phenomenon’ in South Africa, within the context of rising crime and repeat offenders. Research has shown that the political economy of South Africa, inequality, persistent poverty within previously marginalised communities, high school drop-out rates among other factors, creates a breeding ground for criminal activity amongst adolescents, resulting in high convictions and prison sentences in the Western Cape. It is within this context that this study investigated recidivism and reasons for recurring trends, where first time offenders are more likely to return to prison after being released. Specifically, the study investigates why young men from Hanover Park are more likely to be repeat offenders and continuously incarcerated.