NCJ Number
148291
Date Published
1992
Length
110 pages
Annotation
This report reviews international research focusing on whether and how corrections programs can reduce recidivism.
Abstract
The review also considers public attitudes toward corrections and rehabilitation. The review concludes that a small but significant number of correctional interventions are effective in reducing recidivism. The research indicates that two main types of interventions, behavioral and cognitive-behavioral, can be effective. Effective interventions using these approaches have occurred in drug abuse treatment; education; outdoor activities; parole, probation, and temporary release; interventions with sex offenders; and vocational interventions. Interventions rarely associated with effectiveness are those based on the medical model, friendship models, nondirectional counseling, self-help groups in which offenders are in charge, interventions focusing on self-esteem, and deterrent interventions such as shock incarceration. Among the 16 principles of effective interventions are the social learning model, authority structures, modeling and reinforcement of positive alternatives, training in problem solving, community contact, empathetic relationships between staff and offenders, advocacy and referral, flexible and warm staff behavior, drug abuse treatment, offender involvement in intervention planning, strengthening of positive behaviors, treatment-offender matching, and relapse prevention. In addition, interventions must match offender risks and needs. Finally, research in New Zealand, North America, and internationally does not support the view that the public has a punitive attitude. Instead, surveys show that the public views offender rehabilitation as a legitimate function, along with punishment, protection, and deterrence. Tables, glossary, and 140 references