Improving Early Engagement and Treatment Readiness of Probationers: Gender Differences

• NCJ Number: 213413
• Journal: Prison Journal Volume: 86 Issue: 1 Dated: March 2006 Pages: 56-74
• Author(s): Michael Czuchry; Tiffiny L. Sia; Donald F. Dansereau
• Date Published: March 2006
• Length: 19 pages
• Grant Number(s): R01 DA08608
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute on Drug Abuse
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This evaluation examined the effectiveness of motivational activities in improving early treatment engagement for male and female probationers who were receiving substance abuse treatment.

Abstract

Findings show that probationers who received the motivational modules perceived their treatment communities as being more engaged, and they were more likely to remain drug-free compared to probationers who received only standard treatment. This finding was particularly strong for female probationers, who generally showed higher levels of engagement and readiness for treatment compared with male probationers. The motivational activities helped sustain treatment readiness during the first 3 months of treatment. The motivational component is entitled Cognitive Enhancements for Treatment of Probationers (CETOP). The activities include a board game that depicts the accumulating adverse effects of continued substance abuse. Another activity involves the identification and application of personal strengths. A set of CDs encourages using relaxation and visualization techniques. The evaluation involved 294 probationers in Dallas County, TX. The entire sample received the standard program, which includes 4 months of group-based residential experiences and 2 months of work-related transitional activities while in residence. Approximately half of the probationers also received one 2-hour motivational module each month. Probationers completed the Client Evaluation of Self and Treatment (CEST) 3 months into treatment. It measures a number of mental states and behaviors that predict drug use, retention, and criminality. The current study included CEST peer ratings of the treatment community, including the treatment performance of the individuals in their treatment unit. The CEST also includes a composite of treatment readiness that is administered at intake. The Client Evaluation of Self at Intake was administered to probationers in their first month of treatment. It contains many of the same domains as the CEST, but focuses on psychosocial and motivational domains rather than treatment effectiveness or perceptions of progress. 4 tables and 72 references