Recommendations and possible directions for the development of the reintegration officers‘ specialized education

Abstract

Reintegration officers are known for their high level of expertise in implementing human service in the prison environment. The threetiered reintegration system of prevention, rehabilitation and care must have an impact on the life of detainees from the adaption to prison circumstances to the reintegration into society after prison. We expect from the reintegration officers no less than to facilitate positive changes that ultimately result in effective detention – meaning that lead to the detainees’ internal motivation for a successful reintegration into society. What knowledge and ability should a reintegration officer have in order to be able to meet this complex system of expectations over the long time period? It is essential for the professionals to maintain long- term balance, psychological, mental and physical health. The acquisition of the reflective working method, which is a self-knowledge-based approach that is embodied in the forms of counselling listed in the study, can greatly contribute to reaching the above expectations.