One of the most critical factors in determining parole suitability in California is whether an incarcerated individual has developed "insight" into their past actions. If the parole candidate does not demonstrate insight, the Board of Parole Hearings (BPH) is unlikely to approve release. But what does insight mean in the context of a parole hearing, and how can it be effectively communicated to the board? This article explores the concept of insight and offers guidance on how to present it in a parole hearing.

What Is Insight?

In the parole process, insight refers to an individual’s deep understanding of the factors that led to their crime, their acknowledgment of the harm caused, and their ability to articulate how they have changed. It goes beyond simply admitting guilt—it requires a meaningful reflection on past behavior, thought processes, and the steps taken to ensure such behavior will not be repeated.

There are three main components of insight:

  1. Understanding the Root Causes of the Crime – Identifying and explaining the personal, psychological, social, or environmental factors that contributed to the offense.

  2. Acknowledging Harm and Taking Responsibility – Demonstrating an understanding of how the crime affected victims, their families, and the broader community.

  3. Personal Growth and Change – Showing that real transformation has taken place, supported by rehabilitation efforts, education, and a clear commitment to a different future.

How to Effectively Communicate Insight to the Parole Board

The way an individual expresses insight can be just as important as the insight itself. The board looks for sincerity, depth of understanding, and a clear ability to articulate one’s transformation. Here’s how to effectively present insight during a parole hearing:

1. Take Full Responsibility Without Excuses

One of the most common mistakes at a parole hearing is shifting blame or minimizing the severity of the offense. The board wants to see that the individual fully accepts responsibility. Examples of phrases that demonstrate responsibility include:

  • “I made a lot of bad choices, and I take full responsibility for my actions.”

  • “I now understand how my decisions caused immense pain to my victims and their families.”

  • “I can never undo the harm I caused, but I have worked to become a person who will never make such a choice again.”

Avoid statements that deflect blame, such as:

  • “I was in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

  • “I didn’t really have a choice.”

  • “I was just following bad influences.”

2. Identify the Underlying Causes of the Crime

The board wants to know that the individual has reflected deeply on what led them to commit the offense. This might include:

  • Substance Abuse – A history of drug or alcohol use that contributed to poor decision-making.

  • Gang Involvement or Peer Pressure – Associating with negative influences and lacking the strength to make independent decisions.

  • Emotional or Psychological Struggles – Unresolved anger, trauma, or mental health issues that played a role in past behavior.

It’s essential to not just list these factors, but to explain how they were recognized and addressed. For example:

  • “I used to blame others for my actions, but through therapy and self-reflection, I have realized that I alone was responsible for my choices.”

  • “I’ve learned to manage my anger through cognitive-behavioral therapy, and I now have the tools to respond to conflict without violence.”

3. Show Growth Through Rehabilitation

The board expects individuals to demonstrate that they have actively worked to change. This can be done by discussing:

  • Education – Completing GED programs, college courses, or vocational training.

  • Therapy and Counseling – Participating in anger management, substance abuse programs, or other rehabilitative efforts.

  • Self-Help Groups – Involvement in groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, or other restorative justice programs.

  • Positive Contributions – Volunteering within the prison, mentoring others, or engaging in religious or philosophical study.

Key ways to express this:

  • “I used to react with anger, but now I pause, reflect, and choose a constructive response.”

  • “Through my education, I’ve learned to think critically about my past decisions and how to make better choices.”

  • “Helping others avoid my mistakes has given my life new purpose.”

4. Express Empathy for Victims

One of the most significant indicators of true insight is the ability to understand and express the pain caused to victims. This can be demonstrated through:

  • Victim Awareness Statements – Acknowledging the emotional, physical, and financial harm caused.

  • Sincere Regret – Expressing genuine remorse beyond just wanting parole.

For example:

  • “I have spent years thinking about my victim and their family. I took something from them that I can never give back.”

  • “I now understand the fear and suffering my actions caused, and I deeply regret the pain I inflicted.”

Avoid statements like:

  • “I’ve suffered too.” (This can appear self-centered.)

  • “I didn’t mean to hurt anyone.” (This minimizes responsibility.)

Conclusion

Demonstrating insight is one of the most crucial aspects of a successful parole hearing. It requires deep self-reflection, honest acknowledgment of past mistakes, and a clear plan for a changed future. By taking full responsibility, identifying the root causes of the crime, showing growth through rehabilitation, and expressing genuine empathy for victims, individuals can present a compelling case for parole.

For those preparing for a parole hearing, working with an experienced parole attorney can make a significant difference in articulating insight effectively. Guidance from a parole lawyer ensures that the message is clear, sincere, and aligned with what the parole board needs to hear to grant release.

Learn more about how to prepare for a parole hearing in California.