NCJ Number
199350
Journal
Forum on Corrections Research Volume: 14 Issue: 2 Dated: May 2002 Pages: 43-45
Date Published
May 2002
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article discusses implementing a quality of life (QOL) approach into offender rehabilitation programs to increase motivation.
Abstract
For many offenders motivation toward therapy may center on completing program requirements rather than actual self-improvement and lasting behavioral change. It is important that the “us vs. them” mentality prevalent in criminal justice settings be dispelled in order to help offenders increase intrinsic motivation. To offenders, the correctional system represents restricted freedom and punishment. Mandated treatment is not viewed as a benefit or an opportunity for change. QOL can be an effective method to debunk this perception. This approach is associated with higher treatment completion rates in community-based corrections programming. The beginning of the QOL approach consists of introductions and a presentation of the program philosophy and the rules. Offenders are asked to consider and discuss the few things that are most important to them, what they would like to accomplish over the course of a lifetime, and how they would like to attain personal growth. The offenders take the lead in developing the discussion, decreasing perceived control by the system while increasing personal empowerment from the very beginning of the treatment experience. Offenders tend to provide responses associated with QOL such as relationship with family and friends, job satisfaction, and health. It is then shown how “thinking errors,” violence, and criminal behavior largely determine actual QOL and prevent progression toward desired QOL. It is the offender that shoulders the responsibility of personal change. QOL promotion is essential when working with offenders and needs to be promoted within many programs in order to effectively engage clients in therapy. 1 table, 8 notes