The most powerful predictor of future behavior is past behavior. That’s why breaking the cycle of criminal conduct requires 1) recognizing the behaviors and actions that led to criminal conduct in the past, and 2) completing a program or programs that effectively address those behaviors and actions. While that probably sounds like common sense, many incarcerated people resist participating in these kinds of programs. They either deny the need for reflection and behavioral change, claiming that all they need is housing or a job, or they acknowledge the need for change, but are unwilling to do the hard work.

In this lesson, Lewie’s numerous encounters with the law stem from a disregard for others and a self-serving decision-making process. Tired of jailing, he decides to take up construction. But this “solution” does not address the reasons why he keeps getting trouble, so it’s only a matter of time before Lewie gets fired from his job. Similarly, Chris initially looks at everything through a “what’s in it for me” lens. But in group, he starts to recognize that all the resulting jail time really isn’t working out for him. Chris’s shift in perspective leads him to resist fast money and complete a community-based program.

In short, the purpose of this chapter is the following: