Evaluation of CHANGE, an Involuntary Cognitive Program for High-Risk Inmates

• NCJ Number: 242733
• Journal: Journal of Offender Rehabilitation Volume: 51 Issue: 6 Dated: August - September 2012 Pages: 370-388
• Author(s): Nancy L. Hogan; Eric G. Lambert; Shannon M. Barton-Bellessa
• Date Published: September 2012
• Length: 19 pages
• Grant Number(s): 1999-CE-VX-006
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Program/Project Evaluation

Annotation

This article discusses cognitive therapy to reduce violent behavior.

Abstract

Prison violence is a major concern in most correctional institutions. One intervention frequently used to reduce violent behavior is cognitive therapy. An involuntary cognitive program at a Midwestern State prison was evaluated for its impact on official misconduct. A total of 213 inmates were randomly assigned to the treatment (CHANGE) group (n = 122) and the control group (n = 91). The specific outcomes measured were disobeying a direct order, insolence, violent, nonviolent, and total number of infractions. Using general linear univariate model analyses, the only statistically significant but important difference found was the reduction of violence for the CHANGE group after 6 months. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.