Relapse Prevention and the Substance-Abusing Criminal Offender

• NCJ Number: 151603
• Author(s): T T Gorski; J M Kelley; L Havens; R H Peters
• Date Published: 1993
• Length: 33 pages
• Contract Number(s): 270-90-0001
• Sponsoring Agency: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Admin (SAMHSA)
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services; Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Admin (SAMHSA)
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Technical Assistance Publication Series 8

Annotation

Relapse prevention is discussed.

Abstract

This report explains the components of relapse prevention as a part of the drug abuse treatment process. A primary goal of relapse prevention is to provide addicted or drug-abusing offenders with drug treatment that includes help in developing the personal skills and strategies needed to prevent relapse. A second important goal is to offer continuity of care between the criminal justice system and the community after the offender's release. This report suggests many relapse prevention approaches and ideas for creating community linkages among different segments of the system. An overview on the nature of addiction and relapse, the goals of treatment, and strategies to promote the recovery process is provided. The need to prevent relapse through program and community planning is emphasized. The roles of various segments of the criminal justice system are explored. Summaries of a number of specific relapse prevention programs and strategies used by local, State, and Federal criminal justice agencies are covered. References and other resources are included.