This study explores the role of social bonds in successful outcomes in treatment courts.
This study, based on research from evaluations of several treatment court programs, examines the role of social bonds in promoting successful outcomes in treatment courts. Client experiences in the criminal justice system, including successful treatment and prevention strategies, are often characterized by pro and anti-social bonds built with those around them. Clients of the criminal justice system are encouraged to build prosocial lives around work, family, and religion to become invested in family, community, and mainstream society, but practitioners often overlook building bonds with clients that can provide the mentoring and support needed to prevent reoffending.