Social exclusion in terms of women's criminality (The case of İstanbul)

This study aims to explain the relationship between female criminality and social exclusion, using Istanbul as a case example. In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 former female prisoners residing in Istanbul who had spent at least five years in prison. Considering their socio-demographic characteristics, the study explored the areas, dimensions, and levels of social exclusion they experienced, as well as their experiences related to criminal behavior. A phenomenological design was employed using a qualitative method, and purposive sampling techniques, including snowball and criterion sampling, were applied to select participants. The data obtained were analyzed using the MAXQDA software, resulting in two main themes and five sub-themes: the "Crime Experience" theme, which includes the sub-themes "Paths to Crime," "Outlook on the Future," and "Perception of Justice"; and the " The Struggle for Social Participation" theme, which includes the sub-themes "Social Exclusion Process," "Social Exclusion-Crime Cycle," and "Needs for Support and Assistance." Former female prisoners faced social exclusion even before entering prison, and this situation deepened during their incarceration. After release, challenges such as loneliness, stigmatization, lack of economic and psychological support, weakened social ties, housing, and employment difficulties persist; while some women are redirected toward crime, most aim to reintegrate into society and start a new life with their families.