Showing papers in "Journal of Offender Rehabilitation in 2014"
TL;DR: The Level of Service Inventory-Revised (LSI-R) is a correctional assessment tool that identifies the individual risk and needs of criminal offenders as discussed by the authors, which has the support of numerous studies, large samples, and multiple meta-analyses.
Abstract: The Level of Service Inventory-Revised (LSI-R) is a correctional assessment tool that identifies the individual risk and needs of criminal offenders. The predictive validity of the LSI-R has the support of numerous studies, large samples, and multiple meta-analyses. The dynamic nature of many of the items in the LSI-R suggests that offenders are capable of altering their likelihood for future reoffending. However, despite the hundreds of studies conducted on the LSI-R, there have been only two to investigate whether or not changes in LSI-R score were empirically related to recidivism (Raynor, 2007; Vose, Lowenkamp, Smith, & Cullen, 2009). The current study attempts to add to this literature by assessing the predictive and dynamic validity of the LSI-R. Furthermore, this study is the first to investigate the relationship between changes in LSI-R domain scores and recidivism. The results support the LSI-R as a valid instrument in predicting recidivism and suggest future research on risk/needs assessments sh...
68 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the associations of in-person visitation frequency and problems with offender-child closeness, offender-caregiver relationship quality, and offenders’ parenting distress and coparenting were examined.
Abstract: Using data from 69 incarcerated parents, we examine the associations of in-person visitation frequency and problems with offender-child closeness, offender-caregiver relationship quality, and offenders’ parenting distress and coparenting. Visitation problems, but not frequency, were associated with greater offender-child closeness, visitation frequency and problems were associated with offender parenting distress, and there was a trend association between visit problems and coparenting. Neither visitation frequency nor problems were associated with offender-caregiver relationship quality. Results highlight the importance of in-person visitation for offender-child relationships and offenders’ parenting experience during incarceration as well as the need to distinguish between the frequency of those visits and the problems that occur during them.
63 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors used a sample of over 900 male adults who completed a community-based correctional facility to examine how offender risk level moderates the relationship between treatment dosage and recidivism.
Abstract: The risk principle of effective intervention suggests that the intensity of treatment dosage should match the risk level of the individual offender. The current research uses a sample of over 900 male adults who completed a community-based correctional facility to examine how offender risk level moderates the relationship between treatment dosage and recidivism. The results suggest that 1) risk moderates the relationship between treatment dosage and recidivism, 2) the relationship between treatment dosage and recidivism is not linear, and 3) the greatest reductions in recidivism were seen in medium/high risk cases that received between 200 and 249 hours of treatment.
47 citations
TL;DR: This paper examined changes in the beliefs and behaviors of 156 offenders who participated in a Duluth model batterer intervention program and found that over one third of the participants from this batterers intervention program eventually reoffended.
Abstract: This study examined changes in the beliefs and behaviors of 156 offenders who participated in a Duluth model batterer intervention program. Sixty-seven percent of the participants completed both baseline and post intervention assessments of verbal, emotional, and physical aggression. Archival follow-up data, acquired approximately 9 years after completion of the program, were obtained from public records and were used to compare recidivism among program completers and noncompleters. Program completion was not associated with decreased levels of recidivism, which was defined as any violent crime. The results revealed that over one third of the participants from this batterer intervention program eventually reoffended. This finding is consistent with most existing research in this area, and suggests the need for more effective and coordinated individual, group, and community-wide interventions as well as more randomized controlled trials. Batterers who completed the 24-week program, however, did report decr...
47 citations
TL;DR: This article examined types and sources of support received by 60 incarcerated women and found that family members were substantial providers of instrumental support, such as caring for the women's children during incarceration, sending money, and helping navigate personal and legal barriers.
Abstract: We examined types and sources of support received by 60 incarcerated women. Women discussed emotional support from family members as integral to their well-being. Family members were also substantial providers of instrumental support, such as caring for the women's children during incarceration, sending money, and helping navigate personal and legal barriers. Support from other prisoners was also mentioned, with emotional support being common. Other prisoners also provided a great deal of informational support, helping guide newcomers through adjustment to incarceration. Support from professionals, partners, friends, and peer groups were also noted. Implications for women's transition back into communities are discussed.
43 citations
TL;DR: This paper explored the sources of support available to formerly-incarcerated women (FIW) and the influence of that support on life satisfaction One hundred and four FIW were surveyed and 30 interviewed Regression analyses determined how well overall support and support from friends, family, and others predicted life satisfaction.
Abstract: This study explored the sources of support available to formerly-incarcerated women (FIW) and the influence of that support on life satisfaction One hundred and four FIW were surveyed and 30 interviewed Regression analyses determined how well overall support and support from friends, family, and “Others” predicted life satisfaction Findings revealed that only support from “Others,” but not friends or family positively predicted life satisfaction Thematic analysis of qualitative data revealed the “Others” who provide support to FIW include peers, agency staff and other professionals Romantic partners were described as both a source of risk and support Implications for practice and policy are offered
40 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a pilot study explores a pilot arrest alternative for sex-trafficked and prostituted adults regarding diversion program attendance, completion, and 12-month recidivism.
Abstract: This study explores a pilot arrest alternative for sex-trafficked and prostituted adults regarding diversion program attendance, completion, and 12-month recidivism. Two groups were compared using chi-square analyses. The pilot participants were 43 women identified as having committed a prostitution-related crime. They were compared to 42 women arrested and charged with prostitution. No differences were found between the two groups regarding diversion attendance, completion or prostitution-related recidivism. Benefits of the pilot intervention include similar diversion results, cost-savings, intelligence gathering, and a community perspective of victim-centered services for prostituted adults.
35 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined gender differences in social, medical and human needs in an urban jail population and found significantly greater problems for women than men, including chemical dependency and mental health services, and a greater willingness to receive treatment.
Abstract: Jail populations have declined by 6.4% since 2009 as policy and practice shifts toward offender rehabilitation. However, the U.S. female jail population rose about 45% between 1996 and 2011, which suggests that a greater focus on gender-based needs in reentry strategies may further reduce recidivism. This study examined gender differences in social, medical and human needs in an urban jail population. Results revealed significantly greater problems for women than men. More women than men reported needs for chemical dependency and mental health services, and a greater willingness to receive treatment. Implications suggest that gender-responsive programs are essential for jailed women.
35 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a framework of reintegration readiness from women's experiences of community re-entry after a prison stay was proposed, where they described the time immediately following their release, specifically person-specific and context-specific factors that allowed them to successfully adapt to society.
Abstract: The transition from prison to community is challenging for women. Herein we propose a framework of reintegration readiness from women's experiences of community re-entry after a prison stay. In qualitative interviews with 31 women who spent time in Canadian federal prisons, they described the time immediately following their release, specifically person-specific and context-specific factors that allowed them to successfully adapt to society. Addictions and unresolved trauma were barriers to reintegration success. In their transition from prison to the community, it is important to address these person- and context-specific conditions as well as trauma and addictions to improve reintegration readiness.
32 citations
TL;DR: This article reviewed evidence-based and promising treatments to reduce recidivism risk among U.S. military veterans with criminal justice system involvement and suggested treatment adaptations and research to ensure that treatments are effective for veterans.
Abstract: Recidivism among U.S. military veterans with criminal justice system involvement is of national concern. This article reviews evidence-based and promising treatments to reduce recidivism risk, and suggests treatment adaptations and research to ensure that treatments are effective for veterans. Interventions focus on the Risk-Need-Responsivity model, stating that treatments should target adults at high risk of recidivism, and account for individual characteristics. Promising are cognitive-behavioral treatments to change antisocial thinking, such as Moral Reconation Therapy, Reasoning and Rehabilitation, and Thinking For a Change. Treatments need evaluation within justice-involved veteran samples, and may require adaptation due to veterans' military training and experience, mental health concerns, and other characteristics. We present the Department of Veterans Affairs' efforts to reduce recidivism risk among the heterogeneous population of justice-involved veterans.
31 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a systematic review investigates if interventions adopting the "good-life" approach to offender rehabilitation are effective at reducing recidivism, and no eligible studies were found; there is yet no high quality evidence that "good lives" type interventions reduce recidivitis.
Abstract: This systematic review investigates if interventions adopting the “good lives” approach to offender rehabilitation are effective at reducing recidivism. Keyword searches were executed on electronic databases and online libraries, correctional experts and agencies were contacted, reference harvesting and a Google search were conducted, and two relevant journals were hand-searched, to locate relevant research. The main reviewer screened potential studies for relevance. Two reviewers independently assessed for eligibility. No eligible studies were found; there is yet no high quality evidence that “good lives” type interventions reduce recidivism. However, four excluded studies offer tentative evidence for the potential in improving treatment engagement, enhancing motivation and lowering participant attrition. Pending strong empirical support, interventions that adopt a “good lives” approach should be accompanied by practices with a demonstrated impact on recidivism. Future evaluations should utilize rigorous...
TL;DR: Results indicated that the original and shortened version of the YLS/CMI significantly predicted 2-year recidivism for male and female offenders.
Abstract: Although structured assessments have helped standardize juvenile court processes by systematically measuring risk for recidivism, it has been argued that some assessments lack the ability to perform as a brief screener. This study explored the potential for the original 42-item Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory (YLS/CMI) risk assessment to perform as a brief screener for a sample of first-time juvenile offenders in a Midwestern, industrialized county. Results indicated that the original and shortened version of the YLS/CMI significantly predicted 2-year recidivism for male and female offenders. Implications for situationally targeted forms of risk assessment are discussed.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors conducted interviews with 70 male and female inmates from four Pennsylvania correctional industries programs and found that the relevance of the experience depends on the type of industry, including the need for gender-specific correctional work programs.
Abstract: Prison industries offers vocational training and professional work experience to inmates. The limited research on its effectiveness focuses primarily on post-release employment and recidivism outcomes. The current study interviews 70 male and female inmates from four Pennsylvania correctional industries programs. Inmates discussed their perceptions on the program, its impact on their behavior, and whether the training and skills are transferable. Prison industries improves one's sense of self and offers structure and routine. However, the relevance of the experience depends on the type of industry. Strengths and weaknesses of prison industries, including the need for gender-specific correctional work programs, are highlighted.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present an analysis of the perspectives of a group of experienced practitioners and how this practice-based wisdom might inform the development of public policy for sex offender public policy.
Abstract: Sex offender registration and community notification schemes form an increasingly important part of public policy relevant to the management of known sex offenders in the community. Critics of these policies not only point to the lack of empirical evidence that is currently available to support their impact on reoffending, but also the disproportionate and potentially iatrogenic effects that they have on offenders. However, there have been few attempts to understand these issues from the perspective of those practitioners who work on a daily basis with sex offenders in the community. These professionals are uniquely placed to contribute to an understanding of effective risk management and, as such, this article presents an analysis of the perspectives of a group of experienced practitioners and how this practice-based wisdom might inform the development of sex offender public policy.
TL;DR: The current analyses showed that the beneficial effects of prison-based drug treatment were bolstered by aftercare services and continued long after release from prison.
Abstract: This article examines recidivism among a cohort of formerly incarcerated people released from the Sheridan Correctional Center (SCC), a dedicated drug treatment facility based on a Therapeutic Community (TC) model of prison-based drug treatment. After an average of 6.9 years post-release, the SCC releasees had a 15% lower likelihood of recidivism than the comparison group, and a 44% reduction in the likelihood of recidivism when both prison-based drug treatment and aftercare programming were accessed. The current analyses showed that the beneficial effects of prison-based drug treatment were bolstered by aftercare services and continued long after release from prison.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors examined how self-esteem, selfefficacy, and employment hope affect self-sufficiency and found that employment hope significantly mediated the path from selfesteem to selfsufficiency.
Abstract: The purpose of this research is to examine the process of psychological empowerment as it impacts exoffenders' self-sufficiency. This transformational process of social inclusion involves developing employment hope as one strives for economic success. Using a sample of 154 exoffenders receiving services from a community-based social service organization in Chicago, this study investigated how self-esteem, self-efficacy, and employment hope affect self-sufficiency. Based on structural equation model analyses, employment hope significantly mediated the path from self-esteem to self-sufficiency. This study confirms previous studies that suggest a renewed focus on employment hope for comprehensively supporting exoffenders' successful transition to self-sufficiency.
TL;DR: The authors examined the historical experiences of 470 first and second-generation incarcerated adults and found that second generation offenders reported more conduct disorder behaviors occurring prior to age 15, proportionately more juvenile criminal offending, and more childhood adversity than first-generation offenders.
Abstract: The recent climb in U.S. incarceration rates is paralleled by a growing number of children experiencing parental incarceration, including some who follow their parents to prison as second-generation offenders. This study examines the historical experiences of 470 first- and second-generation incarcerated adults. Second-generation offenders reported more conduct disorder behaviors occurring prior to age 15, proportionately more juvenile criminal offending, and more childhood adversity than first-generation offenders. Childhood adversity partially mediated the relation between generation status and conduct disorder, but second-generation status maintained a unique direct effect. Similar analyses regarding juvenile offending among males did not support an adversity mediation model.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined gender differences in factors of potential importance (i.e., substance use, mental health, treatment motivation, criminal activity/thinking) which may help predict treatment outcome among a sample of individuals in drug court.
Abstract: The study purpose was to examine gender differences in factors of potential importance (i.e., substance use, mental health, treatment motivation, criminal activity/thinking) which may help predict treatment outcome among a sample of individuals in drug court. Baseline data were collected via face-to-face interviews from a sample of individuals participating in drug court (N = 515). The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed: age (p < .001), employment (p < .001), and number of months of lifetime incarceration (p < .001) were significant predictors of program completion. Based on study findings, gender may not be a critical factor on program completion in drug court. Rather, the multivariate analysis suggests several of these other characteristics are the critical factors in understanding completion of the drug court program.
TL;DR: The authors explored issues of gender convergence and divergence using an international sample of inmates who engage in recidivistic self-injury and found that male and female respondents expressed similar pathways to a life-long reliance on SIB as a coping mechanism that originates within abusive childhood milieus.
Abstract: This study explores issues of gender convergence and divergence using an international sample of inmates who engage in recidivistic SIB. Male and female respondents expressed similar pathways to a life-long reliance on SIB as a coping mechanism that originates within abusive childhood milieus. Female respondents interpreted self-injury to have complex functions and placed a premium on relationships as a means towards desistance. Males were more likely to utilize SIBs as an expression of rage, using isolation as a masculine-based response to early trauma, and had little hope of desistance. Prisons appeared to reinforce gender-differences by their institutional response to SIBs.
TL;DR: The sociological profile of imprisoned women in Spain is shown, their criminal profile is established, their role as mothers, healthcare, and religion are analyzed, and several proposals to adapt the Spanish penitentiary system to the changes produced by the increase of foreign woman inmates are concluded.
Abstract: This article examines immigrant women's experiences of incarceration in Spain. Our research shows the sociological profile of imprisoned women in Spain, establishes their criminal profile, and analyzes their prison life. We carried out in-depth interviews with professionals and foreign female inmates, in different prisons in Spain. We focused on aspects such as their relationships with Spanish inmates, their problems related to Spanish language and the legal system, their role as mothers, healthcare, and religion. This article concludes with several proposals to adapt the Spanish penitentiary system to the changes produced by the increase of foreign woman inmates.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors provide a detailed description of the reality of implementing the Ten Key Components as related to everyday operations and to the broader process evaluation literature. And policy recommendations are provided regarding the most relevant components to informing the successful implementation of adult drug courts.
Abstract: Model adult drug courts are designed based on the Ten Key Components. Although most process evaluations describe the structure of program implementation, few studies describe the reality of implementing the Ten Key Components or provide a discussion about the intense commitment by staff and offenders necessary to achieve a successful drug court. This study provides a detailed description of the reality of implementing the Ten Key Components as related to everyday operations and to the broader process evaluation literature. Policy recommendations are provided regarding the most relevant components to informing the successful implementation of adult drug courts.
TL;DR: This paper examined how women perceive nonprogrammatic factors while residing at a community corrections facility, including perceptions of staff characteristics and interactions, environmental context, and relationships with residents, and Implications for evidence-based practices and gender-responsive treatment are discussed.
Abstract: This study examines how women perceive nonprogrammatic factors while residing at a community corrections facility. Qualitative interview data was used to understand how women perceive and experience the social environment of the facility, and how these experiences may contribute to their adjustment and motivation. Findings include various themes that emerged during data analysis, including perceptions of staff characteristics and interactions, the environmental context, and relationships with residents. Implications for evidence-based practices and gender-responsive treatment are discussed.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors used the 2004 Survey of Inmates in State and Federal Correctional Facilities to assess the connection between DSM-5 alcohol and drug use disorders and the types of offenses for which women were incarcerated and found that severe alcohol use disorders were significantly associated with violent offenses while severe DUDs were more likely to contribute to property and drug-related offenses.
Abstract: The majority of research on connections between substance use and offending has been conducted among men, and newly adopted Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed. (DSM-5) criteria for substance use disorders have not yet been examined in the criminal justice population. The current study utilized the 2004 Survey of Inmates in State and Federal Correctional Facilities to assess the connection between DSM-5 alcohol and drug use disorders (DUDs) and the types of offenses for which women were incarcerated. Results show severe alcohol use disorders were significantly associated with violent offenses while severe DUDs were more likely to contribute to property and drug-related offenses. These findings have direct implications for DSM-5 substance use disorder assessment and treatment programming for incarcerated women.
TL;DR: In this paper, it is argued that patterns of externalizing blame and narcissism observed within the offender population increase the likelihood that shame will be bypassed and replaced with other-directed anger and aggression.
Abstract: Shaming may appear as an intuitively appealing method for deterring offenders from criminal behavior. However, the experience of shame in the offender population and its role in reducing reoffending has been empirically understudied. Utilizing a review of the existing literature, it will be argued that patterns of externalizing blame and narcissism observed within the offender population increase the likelihood that shame will be bypassed and replaced with other-directed anger and aggression. Instead of being purposefully fostered, shame needs to be carefully handled in the context of a trusting therapeutic relationship. Thus, recommendations are provided for identifying and managing shame in order to establish prosocial behavior change.
TL;DR: The need to understand predictors of hostility among recently released homeless men and how these predictors may relate to recidivism is highlighted and will shape future nurse-led harm reduction and community-based interventions.
Abstract: High levels of hostility present a formidable challenge among homeless ex-offenders. This cross-sectional study assessed correlates of high levels of hostility using baseline data collected on recently-released male parolees (N=472; age 18-60) participating in a randomized trial focused on prevention of illicit drug use and recidivism. Predictors of high levels of hostility included greater depressive symptomatology, lower self-esteem, having a mother who was treated for alcohol/drugs, belonging to a gang, more tangible support, having used methamphetamine and having a history of cognitive difficulties. These findings highlight the need to understand predictors of hostility among recently released homeless men and how these predictors may relate to recidivism. Research implications are discussed as these findings will shape future nurse-led harm reduction and community-based interventions.
TL;DR: The authors examined the impact of adult transition centers (ATCs) in Illinois on post-prisonment earnings and employment and found that ATC assignment modestly improves employment while successful ATC release positively affects earnings.
Abstract: This study examines the impact of adult transition centers (ATCs) in Illinois on postimprisonment earnings and employment. As a work-release program, ATCs are designed to help state prisoners prepare for release through job training and employment opportunities. Using releases from minimum-security prisons as the comparison group, this study finds that ATC assignment modestly improves employment while successful ATC release positively affects earnings and employment. The possible selection bias and their implications for causal inference are discussed.
TL;DR: Using the Allen Barriers to Treatment Instrument, 299 women incarcerated in a local jail were asked about the barriers they believed they would face in seeking treatment after their release, and the top reported barriers were the inability to pay for treatment, the lack of health insurance, and long waiting lists for publicly funded care.
Abstract: Using the Allen Barriers to Treatment Instrument (ABTI), 299 women incarcerated in a local jail were asked about the barriers they believed they would face in seeking treatment after their release. The top reported barriers were the inability to pay for treatment, the lack of health insurance, and long waiting lists for publicly funded care. An exploratory factor analysis was used to categorize the ABTI barriers into seven factors these women believed would stand in their way: Program Characteristics, Non-Gender Specific Programming, Treatment Site Access, Financial Access, Personal Beliefs About Use & Recovery, Community & Social Environment, and Children & Work Obligations.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors analyzed 40 qualitative interviews with probation officers to explore how they leverage third parties within probationers' social networks as part of their supervision, including family members or associates close to the probationer.
Abstract: The study analyzes 40 qualitative interviews with probation officers to explore how they leverage “third parties” within probationers' social networks as part of their supervision. Family members are among the most important figures engaged but are also the most challenging to work with. Other figures include friends, employers, and neighbors. Engagement to leverage support and supervision tends to rely on family members or associates close to the probationer. Engagement to leverage surveillance may rely on family members, but also tends to rely on figures with less loyalty to the probationer, or who bear a grudge towards them.
TL;DR: The DISC Predictive Scales was administered to 812 New York City youths aged 10-19 placed under community supervision as discussed by the authors. Approximately half were indicated for possible mental health problems, most frequently mania and posttraumatic stress disorder.
Abstract: The DISC Predictive Scales was administered to 812 New York City youths aged 10–19 placed under community supervision. Approximately half were indicated for possible mental health problems, most frequently mania and posttraumatic stress disorder. Girls were more likely than boys to flag on most disorders. Hierarchical Classes analysis produced five clusters: disruptive behavior, relational distress, marijuana, emotional dysregulation, and specific phobia. Posttraumatic stress disorder and mania were comorbid with all clusters except marijuana. Emotional dysregulation predicted higher, but relational distress predicted lower, risk for rearrest. Marijuana predicted failure to appear in court and receiving a final disposition of placement.
TL;DR: Four concepts emerged from the responses: personal responsibility, community involvement, mandatory reporting, and separate support for women.
Abstract: Professionals in the field of family violence participated in telephone interviews that included the question: “How would you address safety with Aboriginal men in couple counseling who use abusive behavior toward their intimate partner?” Four concepts emerged from the responses: personal responsibility, community involvement, mandatory reporting, and separate support for women. Results of the analysis were compared and contrasted with the available literature.