NCJ Number
100595
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 44 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1985) Pages: 40-45
Date Published
1985
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Attitude and Risk Scale questionnaires were completed by 113 inmates participating in a drug rehabilitation program at the Federal Correctional Institution in Fort Worth, Tex., and behavioral data were collected to evaluate the program's effects on attitudes toward drugs and adjustment to incarceration.
Abstract
The program uses a holistic approach including cognitive restructuring through counseling, stress management, narcotics anonymous, self-awareness, and relaxation therapy. Participants attend 180 hours of a variety of programs. Analysis of posttest data for the 47 inmates who have completed the 6-month program indicates decreased depression and fatigue levels and maintenance of above-average positive mood levels. Contrary to expectations, perceived riskiness of regular drug use declined, especially with respect to attitudes toward cocaine, LSD, and amphetamine use. Perceived dangerousness of barbiturate use, however, increased. Limitations of the research design are discussed, and recommendations for future evaluations of inmate drug rehabilitation programs are made. 10 references.