Comprehensive System Development in Corrections for Drug-Abusing Offenders: The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (From Drug Abuse Treatment in Prisons and Jails, P 126-141, 1992, Carl G Leukefeld and Frank M Tims, eds. -- See NCJ-138622)

• NCJ Number: 138632
• Author(s): G L Vigdal; D W Stadler
• Date Published: 1992
• Length: 16 pages
• Sale Source: Superintendent of Documents, GPO; National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Wisconsin's systemwide inmate drug treatment program involves treatment-offender matching through screening and a variety of treatment techniques appropriate for a variety of inmate treatment needs.

Abstract

The screening battery currently measures alcohol dependence, other drug involvement, psychiatric impairment, and psychopathic tendencies with the following four instruments: the Alcohol dependence Scale, Offender Drug Use History, the Client Management Classification Interview, and the Megargee offender typology derived from the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory. The screening procedure is designed to develop a strong presumption as to the best match between the offender's substance abuse problems and the program most likely to be beneficial. In the treatment battery, drug education courses have been offered at three major institutions over the past several years for those assessed as having either no or minimal substance abuse treatment needs. In 1985 a program was initiated at the women's prison that departed from prior treatment efforts by using a feminist model, based on empowerment and consciousness-raising that has focused on women's issues. In 1988, 10 intensive supervision program positions were authorized to supervise the most serious drug offenders and to develop programs that are compatible with institutional programs and specifically designed for offenders; the Department of Corrections opened its first full-time day treatment program in early 1988. Day treatment is a 90-day program that has been contracted to a nonprofit corporation with previous experience in working with offenders. Future plans include full implementation of the assessment process across the Department of Corrections, the development of an aftercare specialist in each day treatment program to conduct support groups and assist in social service needs, evening and weekend treatment for offenders who relapse and are employed, and additional and enlarged programming to selected initiatives based on needs. 54 references