Identity Limbo: An Exploration Into The Lived Remand Experience In Trinidad And Tobago.

Julien, Kalifa

Abstract

Remand continues to pose challenges in Trinidad and Tobago (Wallace, 2020), drawing attention from both the Government and citizens of the nation. However, despite its significance, remand remains a relatively understudied area of study within the field of criminology, particularly within the Caribbean context and more specifically in Trinidad and Tobago.
This thesis aims to contribute to the literature by exploring the lived experiences of remandees in Trinidad and Tobago. It will also incorporate the perspectives of decision-makers on remand, providing valuable insights to further contextualise the data obtained from those directly involved. By doing so, the study seeks to shed light on the intricate dynamics of the remand system in Trinidad and Tobago and contribute to a deeper understanding of its complexities, and by extension the criminal justice system.
Specifically, this research aims to investigate how individuals experiencing remand perceive and navigate the process, both from their own perspective and from the viewpoint of those involved in its administration. Through an in-depth examination of these experiences and viewpoints, the study seeks to provide valuable insights into the remand system and its impact on individuals within the Trinidadian and Tobagonian context.
Utilizing a qualitative, phenomenological methodology, this thesis focuses on the perspectives and first-hand encounters of individuals held in remand. It aims to examine their personal interpretations and day-to-day realities within the remand system. This method enables a thorough investigation into the intricate details and challenges embedded in their experiences, offering valuable insights into the remand system in Trinidad and Tobago. By prioritizing the narratives of remandees, the research seeks to reveal perceptions and implications of their encounters, thereby enriching our understanding of the remand processes, the system and its effects on individuals.
Throughout the data analysis process, the researcher utilized three primary strategies to systematically examine and interpret the collected information. Initially, an initial coding framework was established using NVIVO analysis software, categorizing data based on emerging issues from the literature review findings and research questions. The second strategy involved a detailed line-by-line analysis of interviews with various groups, organizing thematic patterns and codes into a tabular format to refine and identify gaps in the data. Lastly, the researcher delved deeper into how these themes conceptualize remand experiences in Trinidad and Tobago by scrutinizing lived experiences and constructing a comprehensive remand model, integrating insights from the initial coding framework and line-by-line analysis. This strategy aimed to provide a more nuanced understanding of remand experiences within the specific context of Trinidad and Tobago, contributing to an understanding of the topic. These broad three primary strategies allowed for a thematic analysis of this study.
From the narratives, the study identifies that remandees experience what can be termed "identity limbo." This is a complex state where remandees find themselves caught between their past experiences and identities, their present circumstances, and their envisioned future, all while in a state of legal suspension. The study highlights that the dehumanization and depersonalization experienced by remandees strip away their previous identities, contributing to this identity limbo. In response to this identity limbo, remandees adopt or reinforce various identities to cope with the uncertainties they face while on remand. These ‘coping identities’ include roles such as "Christian," "intellectual," "non-criminal/innocent," "MVP football player," "father," "family man," "mature wise man," along with practical professions like "electrician" or "mason, “..
The study concludes by highlighting the implications for policy, practice, and future research concerning remand within the criminological field. The study underscores the importance of ongoing dialogue, collaboration, and action to bring about meaningful improvements in remand practices and policies, ultimately contributing to a more just and humane criminal justice system.

• Thesis Type: Dissertation
• Online Publication Date: Mar 27, 2025
• Deposit Date: Jan 29, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 28, 2025
• Award Date: Mar 27, 2025