NCJ Number
196740
Journal
Journal of Offender Rehabilitation Volume: 34 Issue: 3 Dated: 2002 Pages: 47-65
Date Published
2002
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This paper explores factors associated with retention in a therapeutic community for incarcerated substance abusers.
Abstract
The study used data from the CREST Outreach Center. This is an approximately 6-month residential, community-based therapeutic community for prison inmates with histories of substance abuse. Retention is measured both in terms of program completion and days in treatment. Only one predictor -- frequent marijuana use prior to incarceration -- was associated with completion status and days in treatment. Other factors, such as demographic variables, criminal history, psychological status, prior treatment, and legal pressure were significant predictors in some, but not all, models. The study claims to be one of the first to simultaneously incorporate many of the factors the literature suggests are important predictors. Overall, the article illustrates that different types of variables are important predictors. The study also illustrates the need for additional research to clarify factors related to completion and length of time spent in treatment. Tables, figure, references