Exploring Non-Formal Education's role in the rehabilitation and social reintegration of young offenders
A comprehensive literature review
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 22435554 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Simona Grilli (0000-0002-3868-2700, Mercatorum University, corresponding author), Irene Petruccelli (0000-0001-6569-9471, Mercatorum University), Mattia Alfieri (0009-0005-8587-4018, National Institute for the Psychotherapies), Luciano LUCANIA (0009-0003-4379-9588, Italian Society of Physiotherapy), A Pagano (0000-0003-2624-9958, Italian Society of Physiotherapy), Roberta Arrighi (0009-0002-7526-5794, Università degli Studi eCampus) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Volume | 14 |
| Pages | 103196 |
| Publication date | 2026-12-01 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Social Sciences & Humanities Open (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 2590-2911 • E-ISSN: 2590-2911 |
| Publisher | Elsevier BV (PUBLISHER) |
| DOI | 10.1016/j.ssaho.2026.103196 |
| OpenAlex | W7168167916 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 17 |
This literature review examines the role of non-formal education (NFE) in the rehabilitation and social reintegration of young people in the justice system. Drawing on 23 empirical and evaluation studies published between 2006 and 2025, it applies a literature review with systematic search and qualitative thematic synthesis to NFE programmes implemented in custodial and community-based justice settings across diverse countries. Findings indicate that well-designed NFE may enhance educational engagement, social and emotional competences, agency and hope, and may contribute to reduced reoffending and improved reintegration, particularly when programmes are voluntary, participatory and facilitated by trained educators embedded in supportive institutional cultures. However, the evidence base remains fragmented, with small samples, limited longitudinal data, and weak integration between NFE initiatives and youth justice policies. This review calls for more robust, participatory and context-sensitive evaluations to sustain and scale effective practices.
Citizen journalism · Economic Justice · Empirical research · Participatory action research · Qualitative research · Thematic analysis · Education and Vocational Training · Global Educational Policies and Reforms · Global Educational Reforms and Inequalities · Rehabilitation
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Re-engaging incarcerated children and young people with education and learning using authentic inquiry in Italy, Spain, Germany and the UK
Instilling Values to Children in Conflict with the Law in a Youth Facility
Does non-formal education have lasting effects
The role of art education in adult prisons
| Citation velocity | historical |
|---|---|
| Highly cited | No |