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Mindfulness Meditation as an Adjunct Approach to Treatment Within the Correctional System

NCJ Number
243429
Journal
Journal of Offender Rehabilitation Volume: 52 Issue: 3 Dated: April 2013 Pages: 198-216
Author(s)
Terra Dafoe; Lana Stermac
Date Published
April 2013
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This ressearch examines cognitive-behavioral therapy and relapse prevention for reducing recidivism.
Abstract
Cognitive-behavioral therapy and relapse prevention represent the correctional gold standard in treatment, while the principles of risk, need, and responsivity are widely recognized as essential for reducing recidivism. Addressing responsivity has become difficult as the number of inmates with mental health diagnoses continues to rise, complicating treatment programming and highlighting the need for adjunct, complimentary therapies. Mindfulness has been shown to be effective across a number of clinical populations found within correctional settings. Furthermore, it has been shown to be effective for working with difficulties identified as dynamic, criminogenic needs; for example, self-regulation. The present article reviews mindfulness research with the goal of demonstrating the utility of this adjunct approach to working with individuals residing within the correctional system. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.