NCJ Number
124105
Journal
Forum on Corrections Research Volume: 2 Issue: 1 Dated: 1990 Pages: 3-4
Editor(s)
F. J. Porporino,
C. Tellier
Date Published
1990
Length
2 pages
Annotation
One of the most recent innovations in correctional treatment is the cognitive model of rehabilitation which concentrates on the faulty thinking patterns that seem to propel some offenders toward reinvolvement in criminal activities.
Abstract
Cognitive treatment programs attempt to equip offenders with the thinking skills necessary to avoid making criminal choices. The Cognitive Skills Training Program was piloted by the Correctional Service of Canada during the first six months of 1989. The program is based on a group-interactive format in which the staff lead the offenders through a series of structured training sessions. Preliminary findings of the study are very promising with results indicating a statistically significant increase in skill levels on a number of important cognitive dimensions targeted by the program. The offenders also made positive changes in the direction of more pro-social thinking. The program participants expressed a high degree of satisfaction with the program and responses to open ended questions revealed that offenders regarded the program content as highly relevant to their lives. The effectiveness of this program in reducing recidivism will have to await a post-release community follow-up study of offenders who completed the program. 1 table.