NCJ Number
101444
Date Published
1986
Length
17 pages
Annotation
The effectiveness of efforts to rehabilitate drunk drivers was evaluated using data from a probation project conducted in Memphis, Tenn., between September 1986 and 1980.
Abstract
First-time drunk driving offenders were taken into the demonstration project during the first 2 years, with the other 2 years focusing entirely on followup. The court placed offenders either in diversion or in probation, with required treatment participation. Intake sessions classified clients as social or problem drinkers based on the blood alcohol at arrest and the Mortimer-Filkins interview. Subjects were grouped into four groups. The control group had no conditions of probation. Social and problem drinkers attended a 10-hour alcohol safety course or the course plus eight group therapy sessions on assertiveness training, respectively. Clients assigned to probation supervision had to report to probation counselors once a month for a year. The fourth group reported to probation counselors and attended the education and therapy programs. Group assignments were random. The supervision and education and therapy programs were not effective in reducing recidivism. Results varied somewhat among groups and types of drinkers, however. An education program of an evaluation or more punitive sanctions are possible future policy directions. However, education of the public rather than postconviction treatments is the best solution to the drunk driving problem. Tables, 35 references.