An examination of the religious/spiritual lives of male inmates in penal institutions (The case of Maltepe Open Penal Institution)

The aim of this study is to understand and examine in depth the religious/spiritual lives of male convicts in penal institutions. For this purpose, phenomenological design, one of the qualitative research methods, was used in the study. The study group was determined by maximum variation sampling method, which is one of the purposeful sampling techniques. This study was conducted through face-to-face interviews with 12 male convicts convicted of different crimes at Maltepe Open Penal Institution. During the research process, data were collected through a semi-structured 'Interview Form' prepared in accordance with the objectives of the research and a 'Personal Information Form' developed by the researcher in order to obtain demographic information of the participants. The data belonging to the participants could not be audio-recorded due to legal obstacles; therefore, they were recorded in writing during the face-to-face interviews. The obtained data were examined by content analysis method in accordance with the purpose of the research and the findings were presented. The findings obtained in the study are presented around three main themes: the interaction between the perception and experiences of religion/spirituality of male convicts in penal institutions, religious/spiritual practices and psychological reflections, the effect of imprisonment on religious/spiritual life and the need for spiritual support. In line with the findings obtained, it has been observed that religion and spirituality are effective sources on the psychological well-being of male convicts in penal institutions. It can be said that it is necessary to use these sources in the individual and social rehabilitation processes of male convicts in general and in particular, and that the studies to be carried out in this area should be increased.