Aboriginal Culture Matters—Lowering Recidivism Rates Of Federal Aboriginal Offenders In Canada

Aboriginal offenders are overrepresented in Canadian federal justice system.Their high recidivism rates and huge outcome gaps between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal offenders have been great concerns.Though the problems still exist,the latest statistics have shown some positive changes.According to the report on recidivism rates among Canadian federal offenders released in August 2019,the recidivism rates of federal Aboriginal offenders,in accordance with the general trend,have declined.Recidivism rate is an important indicator for measuring the effectiveness of correctional intervention.Therefore,this paper analyzes the change from the correctional perspective.Risk-Need-Responsivity(RNR)model,put forward by Canadian criminologists James Bonta and Donald.A.Andrews,is the most influential rehabilitative model on which Canadian correctional programs are based.To address the cultural needs and colonization effects on Aboriginal people,more Aboriginal-specific programs which incorporate culture and traditional healing are available.The validity of RNR model for Aboriginal offenders and the role of culture within this model form the research questions.This paper mainly adopts case study and literature research as the research methods.The conclusion is that RNR model also works effectively for Aboriginal offenders and culture is an important responsivity factor which contributes to a good learning environment.Culturally appropriate treatment can better engage offenders.Aboriginal offenders can also benefit from cultural teachings and form a more positive and stronger cultural identity when they reconnect to culture.It helps them live a crime-free life.