The question of whether people with criminal records are more likely to reoffend needs to be analyzed from multiple angles, and cannot be answered simply with “yes” or “no.” Here are some key points： --- ### 1. **Statistics on recidivism rate** -**General trend**: Data from many countries show that the recidivism rate of people with criminal records is indeed higher than that of the general population. For example, a study by the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) shows that about 44% of released prisoners will be arrested again within the first year after they are released from prison, and the recidivism rate can reach 83% within 5 years (2018 data). -**Differences in crime types**: The recidivism rate of violent criminals may be lower than that of property crimes or drug offenders, the latter of which is often related to addiction or economic hardship and is more prone to recurrence. --- ### 2. **Complex reasons for recidivism** -**Social exclusion**: Those with criminal records may face employment discrimination, housing difficulties, and broken social relationships. These structural barriers may force them to reoffend to survive. - **Psychological and behavioral factors**: Some people may not have received effective corrective education, or may have been in a criminal subculture environment for a long time, and it is difficult to break away from their original behavior patterns. -**Drugs and mental health**: Substance abuse or untreated mental illness is a high-risk factor for repeat crimes. --- ### 3. **Key measures to reduce recidivism** -**Social support**: Providing vocational training, psychological counseling and stable housing can significantly reduce the recidivism rate. For example, Norway has controlled the five-year recidivism rate at about 20% (much lower than the United States) through a prison system that focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment. -**Judicial policy**: The system of sequestration of criminal records (such as the “elimination of criminal records” policy in some countries) helps first-time offenders re-integrate into society and reduces the “label effect”. -**Community supervision**: An effective probation or parole system combined with support services is more conducive to reducing recidivism than simple imprisonment. --- ### 4. **Individual differences and exceptions** -Not all people with criminal records will reoffend. Age is an important factor-studies have shown that the crime rate generally declines after the age of 40 (“age-crime curve”). In addition, family support or personal awakening may also prompt radical change. --- ### 5. **Social bias and data limitations** -**Statistical deviation**: The recidivism rate may be overestimated, because those with criminal records are more likely to be noticed by the police, resulting in “repeated arrest” may not be equal to “repeated crimes.” -**Systemic inequality**: Poor communities or ethnic minorities may face higher regulatory pressure, and their recidivism rates may reflect social injustice rather than personal preferences. --- ### Conclusion Although the data show that people with criminal records have a higher risk of reoffending, this association is more due to insufficient social support and systemic barriers, rather than “criminal genes” that individuals cannot change. By improving social acceptance after release from prison, providing resources, and reforming judicial policies, the recidivism rate can be significantly reduced. Therefore, the core of the problem lies in how society can help these people rebuild their lives, not just due to personal choices.