NCJ Number
219514
Journal
Federal Probation: A Journal of Correctional Philosophy and Practice Volume: 71 Issue: 1 Dated: June 2007 Pages: 38-43
Date Published
June 2007
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study explored the experiences of the offenders who were involved in the Indiana Canine Assistant and Adolescent Network (ICAAN) program in prison.
Abstract
The data collected suggests that the Indiana Canine Assistant and Adolescent Network (ICAAN) program has positive effects on the rehabilitation of the offenders within the program. One of the most significant findings was that the men recognized improvements in self-esteem after participating in the program. The reason for this was thought to be due in part to the increased responsibilities they have been given and the trust instilled in them from the prison staff. The inmates also reported improved social skills from participating in ICAAN. The increases in self-esteem and the improved skills in communication and patience are likely to have an effect on each inmate’s life outside of prison. Prisons and juvenile detention centers across the United States have begun implementing dog-training programs in which offenders within the facilities train dogs for a variety of service positions. One of these programs is the ICAAN program. ICAAN is a non-profit organization that trains and places service animals and was founded in 2001. It began in a juvenile correctional facility, and it has since expanded to several correctional facilities involving males and females, both adolescent and adult. This exploratory study sought to gain insight and understanding into the offenders’ experiences of participating in the dog training program. The study used in-depth interviews with each of the ICAAN program participants. References