Treatment outcomes of a prison diversion program.

摘要

The present study outlines the development, implementation and outcomes of a prison diversion treatment program in Central California. The resulting 12-week cognitive-behavioral program was designed in accordance with empirical literature, and the qualitative and quantitative findings suggest positive treatment outcomes and pro-social benefits to the participants. Twenty-three offenders serving suspended prison sentences completed the program, and statistical analyses of pre-post differences revealed significant improvements in graduates' ratings of quality of life. In addition, clinician ratings yielded notable improvements in participants' negative attitudes and impulsivity, as measured by the HCR-20. Qualitative data produced numerous thematic trends regarding the group experience and programmatic developmental recommendations. Overall, participants reported experiencing improvements in self-awareness, self-esteem, decision-making, and goal-setting. Preliminary six-month findings of the initial 13 participants have yielded a 0% recidivism rate, with 100% of the program graduates maintaining gainful employment, pursuing educational goals, or both. Considerations for subsequent program development are discussed in addition to varied limitations faced by this research undertaking.