Group Psychotherapy in Prison - A Proper Role for the Psychiatrist

• NCJ Number: 79070
• Journal: MEDICAL TRIAL TECHNIQUE QUARTERLY Volume: 27 Dated: (Winter 1981) Pages: 249-271
• Author(s): R G Rappaport
• Date Published: 1981
• Length: 23 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This discussion of group psychotherapy in an Illinois prison considers the procedures used, the group experiences, and some particular problems of the criminal.

Abstract

Based upon the belief that criminality is a form of maladaptive behavior resulting from stress or oppression, approval for a psychotherapeutic group of 10 inmates was sought and gained. The plan was for a heterogenous group composition based on varied criminal records, sentences, number of prison terms, educational levels, family and economic background, race, and prison jobs. An attempt was also made to include men who appeared relatively articulate, capable of insight, and motivated for self-improvement. Two therapists participated in the group. The group has met once a week since its inception in June 1968. Through an emphasis on sharing feelings and insights, group members developed strong bonds which provided a foundation for interpersonal communication. Positive changes in impulse control, expression of emotion without retribution, and increasing personal insight were observed over the course of group sessions. A particularly difficult problem was dealing with members' encounters with administration policy and guard attitudes outside the group as they tended to undermine the trust and helping atmosphere the therapists sought to cultivate. The group members and criminals in general tend to regard themselves as outcasts, abandoned, and prejudged by normative society. The group process aims at helping offenders develop a self-esteem that will lay the foundation for successful participation in the role of normative society. Based upon the group experience, recommendations for corrections are offered. Overall, it is recommended that treatment centers with appropriate security provisions replace the present prison system. Tabular data on group participants are provided, and 20 bibliographic entries are listed.