It may depend on what prison someone is in as to the conditions that one experiences.  Some people seem to get institutionalized and perhaps they can't stand being outside the gates.  I almost became institutionalized in the hospital, but the second place I was at was prepared to help me leave.  I grew a lot during my 10 month stay and was ready to leave.  I think some people can become great citizens, but I guess they have to want it and then there needs to be some sort of support system outside to help them stay out.