Stepping Out of the Time Machine: The Shock of Re-Entry for Long-Term Inmates in Singapore

Imagine being cut off from the world for a decade or more, only to step back into a landscape utterly transformed. This thought-provoking scenario recently became the focal point of a lively discussion on r/SingaporeRaw, initiated by user mirestig. Prompted by a CNA documentary on maximum-security prisons, mirestig posed a poignant question: what is it like for individuals jailed for over 10 or 20 years to re-enter a society drastically altered by rapid technological and infrastructural advancements?

The original poster, mirestig, highlighted the dizzying pace of change in Singapore:

When you are released do you get a big shock? Technology moves so fast, smart phones, Internet, EVs, rapid infrastructure changes, Garden by the Bay, RWS, Casino, MBS etc. It's like stepping into a time skip, going tot he future. How long it takes for you to get up to speed with all the changes.

The conversation quickly revealed that this "time skip" is far more complex than just learning how to use a smartphone. According to those with experience, the psychological and practical challenges are immense.
Terminator1108, who has dealt with former inmates, commented:

Most especially those whom had served long sentences will have issues readjusting to life outside prison. Some simply cannot adapt to the “new” society and the technology advancements. Some will re offence and go back into the judicial system. At least inside although there is no freedom, their basic needs like 3 meals a day and medication are provided.

This chilling reality—that some might prefer the confines of prison due to the overwhelming difficulties of the outside world—was a recurring theme. The original poster, mirestig, further elaborated on the deep-seated fears upon release:

If I were to put myself in their shoes, before released I would have thought of liberation, like finally the long wait is over. However more so I would be worried, would be scared, especially if I am penniless and without knowing anyone outside. Where to find accommodation, job, what with all the new stuff going around me. So ya, perhaps committing some petty crimes to go back to a familiar place could be comforting.

This phenomenon is often termed "institutionalization," a concept famously depicted in The Shawshank Redemption.
Potatetoe_tractor highlighted this, quoting the film:

“These walls are funny. First you hate 'em, then you get used to 'em. Enough time passes, you get so you depend on them. That's institutionalized."

Smiledontcry added another powerful quote from the movie, capturing the feeling of a world speeding away:

"Dear fellas, I can't believe how fast things move on the outside. I saw an automobile once when I was a kid, but now they're everywhere. The world went and got itself in a big damn hurry."

Beyond the technological shock, many users pointed out that the core struggle is often about basic survival.
Tehogaokosong succinctly put it:

It is less the speed of how fast the world has moved on, and more of bread and butter issues. In jail, your basic needs are taken care of: food, clothing, shelter. No freedom, but no need to worry about those three essential basic needs. But once in the real world, these three essential needs are suddenly gone.

They added that ex-inmates face significant hurdles like criminal records, age, and limited job opportunities, leading some to intentionally re-offend to return to the perceived security of prison. This grim choice underscores the profound challenges of reintegration.
Barneyinsg simply stated:

Suspect many couldn't adjust and opt to return back to prison.

However, not everyone believed it's a universal struggle.
Dazark offered a more optimistic view for some:

i doubt that a gen Z or A who comes out of prison after a decade or two, wont be able to catch up with the times, given that they grew up with Internet & social media. or a highly educated, white collar criminal.

This suggests that prior exposure to technology and education might play a significant role in one's ability to adapt.

The discussion highlights the vital role of support systems like the Yellow Ribbon Project, which aims to prepare inmates for re-entry and provide them with a pathway back into society. Without robust support, the "time skip" from incarceration to modern life can feel like an impossible leap, leading some to choose the familiarity of a cage over the bewildering freedom of the outside world. The underlying theme remains: true rehabilitation requires not just a change within the individual, but also a bridge back to a constantly evolving society.