SIMULATING THE LIVED EXPERIENCE

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2025

Publication Title

Handbook on Lived Experience in the Justice System Volume 10

Abstract

Negative attitudes and preconceived notions toward incarcerated and previously incarcerated individuals are commonplace in the United States (Moak et al., 2019). Research on how to change attitudes, and develop empathy and compassion, shows experiential learning such as role-playing (Poorman, 2002). For criminal justice practitioners and community members, understanding the lived experience of justice-impacted individuals is crucial to their success when returning home. One way to help people understand the significant challenges faced by citizens returning home from prison is a re-entry simulation. Designed by the Department of Justice, re-entry simulations allow participants to navigate the world as a newly released justice-impacted person. Each participant is given an identification, role, and tasks to complete within a specific time frame. Usually, the simulation is then followed by a discussion. During our simulation events, we decided to invite justice-impacted guest panelists to have an open dialogue after the simulation. In doing so we’ve seen how this dialogue can create increased awareness about the complexity of re-entry, change perceptions, and deepen empathy. The integration of justice-impacted individuals with the simulation adds a unique element to the simulation experience and creates a space for individuals to share their perspectives.

Volume Number

10

First Page

468

Last Page

480

DOI

10.4324/9781003615620-57

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