Recidivism refers to the tendency of a formerly incarcerated individual to relapse into criminal behavior, often resulting in re-arrest, reconviction, or reincarceration. This term is closely linked to the discussions around mass incarceration and sentencing reform, as it highlights the challenges of rehabilitation and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in preventing repeat offenses. High rates of recidivism are often seen as indicative of systemic issues within the justice system, which can impact policies aimed at reducing incarceration rates and reforming sentencing practices.
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