A Case Study on the Motivation of Selected Life- Sentenced Prisoners in the Correctional Institution for Women

Abstract

In the Philippines where there is no death penalty, life imprisonment/reclusion perpetua is the most severe punishment imposed for all heinous crimes which ranges from twenty (minimum year) to forty years (maximum years). Inmates suffer and face different challenges in their life in prison. This study focused on the motivation of those inmates who have a verdict as a life termer. The purpose of this study was to describe the socio-demographic profile of life- sentenced female prisoners as well as to describe their typical day in prison. It also aimed to identify their reasons for living despite being a life termer and to explain their coping mechanisms in order to continually live their life in prison. Ten life-sentenced female prisoners from Correctional Institution for Women participated in the study. The researcher used qualitative method, particularly case study, in conducting the research. In-depth interview guide were used in order to direct the researcher with the right flow of interview. Content analysis was performed to analyze the data gathered. The results revealed that, despite the difficulties and challenges that inmates face in their life in prison, they are still motivated to live and they still find meaning in their life. Factors like family especially children, institution and their belief in God contributed to their reasons of living. Through mature coping and emotion-focused coping, they are able to survive their everyday life in prison.