Prisoner Futures: Sensing the Signs of Generativity

In recent years, a small but critically informed literature has emerged which points to the link between opportunities to engage in generative acts and desistance from crime. This paper outlines the nature and limits of generative moments (conceived as the philosophy or practice of caring in non-violent and durable ways for self, other and future) with regard to the incarceration of a group of young males interviewed since 2003. Specifically, it poses the question of who or what it has been possible for these young men to care about within and beyond custody and highlights some of the factors which undermine generative concerns and actions. In concluding, the paper offers several ideas for enhancing generative opportunities within custodial environments.