NCJ Number
235162
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 55 Issue: 4 Dated: June 2011 Pages: 646-661
Date Published
June 2011
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This article discusses meditation-based programs as rehabilitative for incarcerated populations.
Abstract
There is research that serves as evidence in favor of meditation-based programs as rehabilitative for incarcerated populations. This article reviews empirical research regarding the effects of meditation-based programs in correctional populations. Three meditation-based interventions have been shown to represent the majority of empirical research and are reviewed in this article: Transcendental Meditation, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and 10-day Vipassana retreats. Selected dissertation research is reviewed as well. Overall, research suggests three areas in which meditation-based programs provide sufficient treatment to criminal offenders: the enhancement of psychological well-being, a decrease in substance use, and a decrease in recidivism. This suggests that meditation-based programs may be proper treatment programs and support rehabilitation for correctional populations. (Published Abstract)