What is the effectiveness of therapeutic communities at reducing recidivism of prisoners?
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Therapeutic communities (TCs) have shown effectiveness in reducing recidivism among prisoners. Studies highlight that TCs are beneficial in addressing substance use disorders (SUDs) and improving psychosocial outcomes, such as self-esteem and mental health . Additionally, prison-based TCs have been successful in integrating inmates into positive peer environments, aiding in criminal desistance over time . Despite documented success in reducing recidivism among violent offenders in California prisons, challenges persist due to bureaucratic and political factors . The TC model's efficacy is evident in various settings, including the UK and the United States, emphasizing the importance of further research to enhance treatment outcomes and address existing gaps in knowledge .
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| Papers (5) | Insight |
|---|---|
1 Citations | In California, in-prison therapeutic communities have shown success in reducing recidivism, particularly among violent offenders, despite challenges from bureaucratic and political obstacles. |
01 Jan 2018 4 Citations | Prison therapeutic communities effectively reduce drug dependence and criminal recidivism by integrating inmates into positive peer environments, emphasizing human agency and linked lives for behavioral change. |
01 Jan 2019 2 Citations | Therapeutic communities in prisons are effective at reducing recidivism rates among inmates with substance use disorders, including opioid use disorder, as shown in studies on the U.S. judicial system. |
| The effectiveness of coaching prisoners with the therapeutic community method at the Cirebon Class IIA Narcotics Penitentiary is hindered by relapse challenges and lack of focus on addiction fundamentals. | |
2 Citations | Prison-based Therapeutic Communities, particularly Democratic TCs, show effectiveness in reducing reoffending rates and improving psychological aspects among individuals with offending history and personality difficulties. |
Related Questions
How effective are current rehabilitation programs for youth offenders in reducing recidivism rates?5 answersCurrent rehabilitation programs for youth offenders vary in effectiveness in reducing recidivism rates. Studies show that social-therapeutic treatments, including educational and vocational training, have shown positive effects on recidivism among juvenile offenders. Additionally, the development of individually oriented rehabilitation programs based on psychological characteristics and guilt experiences of juvenile offenders has been found to be beneficial in reducing recidivism. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and evidence-based therapeutic programs have also proven effective in addressing cognitive deficiencies among offenders, leading to reduced recidivism rates. Furthermore, interventions like parent training, focused deterrence, and mentoring have shown significant effectiveness in decreasing antisocial behavior and offending among youth, highlighting the importance of tailored and comprehensive approaches in rehabilitation programs.
What are the most effective rehabilitation programs for inmates to reduce recidivism rates?4 answersRehabilitation programs that have shown effectiveness in reducing recidivism rates for inmates include restorative justice programs, sports and recreational activities, evidence-based therapeutic programs, and social rehabilitation programs targeting criminogenic needs. Restorative justice programs aim to address the underlying causes of criminal behavior and promote accountability and healing for both victims and offenders. Sports and recreational activities have been found to have positive effects on mental health, physical well-being, and social relationships, contributing to a reduction in criminal activity. Evidence-based therapeutic programs focus on cognitive behavior and have been successful in reducing recidivism when supported by effective leadership and qualified professionals. Social rehabilitation programs that target criminogenic needs have shown significant reductions in recidivism rates, particularly for inmates with high risk scores and procriminal attitudes. These findings highlight the importance of addressing individual needs and providing comprehensive support for successful inmate rehabilitation.
What are the effects of rehabilitation prison programs on recidivism?4 answersRehabilitation prison programs have varying effects on recidivism. Restorative justice interventions (RJIs) aim to repair harm caused by crime and improve offender accountability, but the timing of RJI delivery does not relate to binary recidivism. Israel's military rehabilitation program for imprisoned soldiers aims to prevent re-incarceration, but it has been found that rehabilitation can actually lead to recidivism. Religious-oriented rehabilitation programs, such as Jewish-based programs in Israel, have shown positive effects on reducing recidivism, particularly when they engender legitimate changes in levels of religiosity. Drug rehabilitation programs in the Israeli Prison Service have also shown positive outcomes for completers, particularly those that are more comprehensive and include cognitive behavioral therapy, therapeutic community, long duration, intensity, and positive social climate. Therefore, the effects of rehabilitation prison programs on recidivism vary depending on the specific program and its components.
How effective is cognitive behavioural therapy for preventing recidivism?5 answersCognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in preventing recidivism. Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of CBT in reducing re-offending rates among various populations, including individuals who sexually offended against children, pedophilic perpetrators, chronic youthful offenders, and high-risk probation populations. CBT interventions focus on cognitive functioning and behavior, aiming to develop skills for living in harmony with the community and engaging in positive behaviors. These interventions have been found to significantly reduce recidivism rates, with ART+T4C treatment participants demonstrating lower re-arrest rates compared to ART-only participants. Additionally, CBT has been effective in reducing non-violent offending and drug use among probation populations. Overall, the evidence suggests that CBT is an effective approach for preventing recidivism and promoting positive outcomes in various offender populations.
Do timely mental health services reduce re‐incarceration among prison releasees with severe mental illness?5 answersTimely mental health services may not reduce re-incarceration among prison releasees with severe mental illness. In Washington State, individuals receiving timely mental health services were more likely to experience prison re-incarceration overall and specifically for technical violations, although the effect on incarceration for new charges was not significant. Lack of community services available upon release is thought to be associated with recidivism among people with severe mental illness. However, in British Columbia, Canada, access to mental health services was associated with a significant reduction in the hazard of reincarceration. In Queensland, Australia, infrequent or unsustained contact with community-based mental health services was not protective against reincarceration and may even be iatrogenic. In Florida, inmates diagnosed with any type of mental illness, especially those with a serious mental condition, were significantly more likely to recidivate. Therefore, the relationship between timely mental health services and re-incarceration among prison releasees with severe mental illness is complex and may vary depending on the context.
What do you think is the best characteristic of the therapeutic community that can help address the behavioral problem?3 answersThe best characteristic of the therapeutic community that can help address behavioral problems is its ability to provide a supportive and structured environment for individuals to address their issues and make positive changes. The therapeutic community offers a social system and conditions that allow for the exploration of interpersonal and intergroup tensions, which can contribute to the understanding and resolution of behavioral problems. Additionally, the therapeutic community can "hold" its members in a way that allows for change to take place, serving as an important adjunct and facilitator to individual therapy. This approach emphasizes the importance of adhering to existing structures and functioning, while also utilizing staff consultation to maintain the therapeutic community's integrity. Overall, the therapeutic community provides a comprehensive and holistic approach to addressing behavioral problems, combining individual therapy, group therapy, and a supportive community environment.