The Effectiveness of Prisoner Personality Development Activities in Supporting Social Reincorporation

Efektivitas Kegiatan Pembinaan Kepribadian Narapidana dalam Mendukung Reintregrasi Sosial

Abstract

The correctional system in Indonesia upholds a rehabilitative and reintegrative philosophy grounded in Law No. 22 of 2022 on Corrections, which mandates every correctional institution to conduct structured personality development programs aimed at improving inmates’ quality of life and social functioning. This study examines the effectiveness of personality development activities in supporting the social reintegration of inmates at the Class IIA Correctional Institution (Lapas Kelas IIA) in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. A qualitative method with a naturalistic approach was employed, collecting data through in-depth interviews with correctional officers, counselors, and inmates, as well as direct observations and documentation analysis. The findings reveal that personality development activities encompassing religious guidance, moral counseling, and psychological counseling play a pivotal role in enhancing self-awareness, mental readiness, and the social adaptation capabilities of inmates. Inmates who actively participate in these programs demonstrate measurably positive behavioral changes and exhibit a significantly lower tendency to reoffend. Program effectiveness is further evaluated through the Prisoner Rehabilitation Assessment System (SPPN), which provides standardized and objective indicators of inmate progress. Nevertheless, implementation faces persistent challenges, including severe institutional overcapacity, a shortage of professional staff such as psychologists and counselors, inadequate facilities and infrastructure, and low inmate motivation to participate meaningfully. These obstacles substantially diminish program quality and reach. It is concluded that personality development activities are considerably effective in supporting social reintegration, yet require strengthened institutional support, qualified human resources, and improved facilities to achieve optimal and sustainable outcomes.