The Impact of the Swedru Junior Boys Correctional Centre on the Reformation of Juvenile Offenders

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which the Swedru Junior Boys Correctional Centre facilitated the reformation of juvenile offenders who have passed through its walls. Cross-sectional research activities were undertaken based on a triangulated approach which used both quantitative and qualitative research strategies. As methods of data collection, the quantitative research made use of the face-to-face interview while the qualitative strategy made use of key informants’ interview. This study found that the treatment programs (counseling, moral training, vocational skills training, education & literacy program) were not effective and therefore did not have any positive impact on the high reformation of the juvenile offenders who have passed through its walls for a responsible adult life. It was also revealed from the findings that there is a statistically significant relationship between the respondents’ description of the favourableness of the culture of the correctional centre and their reformation, and this meant that the institutional culture was favourable in terms of the food, beddings, rules, punitive measures, general beliefs and practices that contribute to high reformation of the juvenile offenders. However, the professionals providing reformatory treatment programs at the centre believed the centers’ institutional culture do not have any positive impact on juvenile reformation. Finally, the study found no statistically significant relationship between the level of reformation of the juvenile offenders and the level of professionalism of officers engaged in the treatment of juvenile offenders. This meant that the level of professionalism exhibited by the officers was inimical to high reformation of graduates. Based on these findings, it was recommended that relevant stakeholders should introduce a comprehensive and individual scientific therapy to juveniles; provide favorable institutional culture; and also provide regular in-service training to staff at the centre. It was also recommended that alternative treatment programs that are compatible with the Ghanaian culture and environment be introduce into the Juvenile Justice Administration.