NCJ Number
138321
Date Published
1989
Length
8 pages
Annotation
In order to develop an effective evaluation process, the Florida Department of Corrections Substance Abuse Programs (FDCSAP) has recognized three components to the evaluation of its TIER drug abuse treatment programs: screening and assessment, process evaluation, and outcome evaluation.
Abstract
FDCSAP has developed an assessment program which includes a variety of techniques to tap the treatment needs of offenders and match them with the appropriate treatment plans. The assessment program relies on an interview and administration of two testing instruments to identify substance abusers, assess the severity of their problems, measure their readiness for treatment, and assign them to treatment. Process evaluation is used to establish and maintain program integrity. The procedures used to accomplish this task include data collection from reception centers, TIER programs, and site visits; data analysis; and program adjustment. Three principal indicators are used to evaluate program outcome: inmates' participation and their rate of completion of the treatment program; changes in inmate psychology and attitudes toward drug abuse; and inmates' recidivism rates. The instruments used in the FDCSAP outcome evaluation include a knowledge test, an attitude survey, psychological measures, and followup measures.