Recidivism

usgb/rɪˈsɪdɪvɪzəm/
noun

The act of repeating an unwanted behavior after punishment or treatment, often used when talking about crime.

High levels of recidivism indicate that the prison system isn't effectively rehabilitating criminals.
Visual representation of "recidivism" - The act of repeating an unwanted behavior after punishment or treatment, often used when talking about crime.

Often appears as...

  • reduce recidivism
  • high recidivism

Usage tips

Formal

Academic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "recidivism"
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Crime Focus

Recidivism mainly refers to crimes and the justice system, not just any bad habit.

Illustration for Crime Focus
Programs for juveniles focus on reducing recidivism by teaching life skills.
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System Failure

Use 'recidivism' to suggest that treatment or punishment didn't fix the underlying problem.

Illustration for System Failure
The study highlighted the recidivism of inmates as evidence of the system's failure.
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Negative Connotation

'Recidivism' has a negative tone because it means returning to harmful patterns.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The community launched a project to help lower local recidivism rates.
Visual representation of the word "Recidivism"

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