ISSN: 2222-6990
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Little is known about how effectively incarcerated adolescents in Malaysia are prepared for an independent life upon their release from incarceration. One of the constructs that may play an important role in this issue is alexithymia regulation. Thus, this study is designed to examine the relationship between alexithymia regulation and readiness for independent living. In line with the study objectives, a two-stage cluster sampling method was used by this cross-sectional study in selecting the respondents from selected Sekolah Tunas Bakti in Peninsular Malaysia. A total of 255 questionnaires were distributed to incarcerated adolescents aged 12 to 18 years old. The findings revealed that the alexithymia regulation may not be as prevalent among incarcerated adolescents with a coefficient ? value of (r = -.430, p > 0.05). Nevertheless, there is a general lack of concern and the ability to portray feelings in several approaches. These capacities are thought to lay the reason for alexithymia regulation and the structure of healthy relational relationships. Likewise, a fundamental understanding of the readiness for independent living among incarcerated adolescents can be utilized as a source of output for the policymakers to provide a supportive environment for these incarcerated adolescents, especially in the Malaysian context.
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