Transforming Perspectives: How Working with Offenders Influence My Beliefs about Human Nature

Working with individuals classified as offenders has been one of the most enlightening experiences of my life. Growing up, I held a completely trusting and naive view of human behavior. I believed that any deceitful or immoral actions were rare and characterized by a lack of moral values, or worse, mental illness. However, my worldview began to shift dramatically when I encountered individuals and situations that challenged my assumptions.

Na?ve Beginnings

Extending trust was intrinsic to my upbringing. I was surrounded by what I thought to be the best human beings and had little exposure to deceit and criminal behavior. My belief was that if someone did something illegal, it was likely due to a lack of moral fiber or mental instability. It was a tragedy when I discovered how many people, even seemingly normal individuals, subtly perpetrate minor deceptions. I never realized the extent to which people hide their true intentions and behaviors unless they were deemed "crazy."

Hard Lessons and Realizations

Through my experiences, I came to understand that there was a vast spectrum of human behaviors. The unassuming nature of some deceptions and the complex nature of psychological issues led to false assumptions and poor decisions. This led to personal consequences that I continue to grapple with today. My journey has taught me to be more cautious and observant of human behavior, even in the absence of visible authority or situations where others are watching.

Professional Insights

During my tenure as a paralegal for the state of Ohio, I witnessed a diverse array of individuals. Among them, some were indeed innocent, their misfortunes a consequence of a broken legal and policing system. Nevertheless, the reality of the individuals I encountered and their legal situations revealed a stark contrast between those who showed potential for reform and those who did not. I witnessed the range of human behavior, from liars, thieves, and manipulators to individuals who exhibited hard work, honesty, and reliability. These experiences deepened my understanding of human nature and the varied paths people can take.

The Long-Term Impact

After my time as a paralegal, I interacted with some of these individuals again. The challenge lay not in ensuring they did not violate their release papers, but in seeing the potential for their reintegration into society. The Ohio correctional system has implemented measures to reduce recidivism, with a less than 10% chance of reoffending for individuals who maintain a clean record for three years or more. This statistic highlights the importance of accountability and personal choice in shaping future behavior.

Reflections and Lessons Learned

The work with offenders has not only transformed my beliefs about people but has also provided valuable insights into human behavior and motivation. While I have not assumed that everyone is a serial killer, I am more aware of the hidden aspects of human behavior and the potential for change. It has taught me to be more observant and to evaluate people's actions and words more thoroughly. I am more cautious and less quick to trust, understanding that everyone has the potential for both good and bad behavior.

Conclusion

Working with offenders has been a profoundly transformative experience, pushing me to reconsider my initial naive views of human nature. It has taught me that human behavior is complex and multifaceted, and that everyone has the capacity for both positive and negative actions. While it has made me more cautious in my interactions with others, it has also fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation for the potential for change in individuals.