Paths of Transformation: Health Education for Resocialization at the Paraíso do Tocantins Penal Unit

Abstract

This study analyzed the sociodemographic, educational, socioemotional, and health profiles of individuals deprived of liberty at the Regional Penal Unit of Paraíso do Tocantins, aiming to understand how education and the development of socioemotional skills contribute to social reintegration. It is an observational, descriptive, mixed-method study conducted between February and June 2025 with 30 male inmates. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, Spearman’s correlation, and thematic categorization. The mean age was 30 years, with low educational levels and high interest in educational activities. A significant association was observed between self-control and the appreciation of socioemotional skills (p < 0.05), as well as a positive correlation between education level and self-control (ρ = 0.35; p < 0.05). Most participants rated their health as fair or poor. The results indicate that education, combined with socioemotional development, acts as a protective factor by promoting self-regulation, empathy, and the redefinition of life trajectories. However, structural weaknesses and the lack of integrated health and education policies in the prison system persist. It is concluded that the integration of education, health, and socioemotional competencies is essential to reduce vulnerabilities and promote dignified and effective social reintegration.

Keywords: Prison education. Socioemotional skills. Social reintegration. Prison system.