NCJ Number
208064
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 68 Issue: 2 Dated: September 2004 Pages: 4-8
Date Published
September 2004
Length
5 pages
Annotation
After summarizing the findings of the published literature on what works in prisoner reentry programs, this article questions the existing evidence on what works and urges a broader conversation about current methods, outcome measures, and practitioner expertise.
Abstract
In reviewing the literature on reentry programs, the author defines such programs as "all activities and programming conducted to prepare ex-convicts to return safely to the community and to live as law abiding citizens." The literature review distinguishes between Canadian contributions, which tend to identify the principles of effective programs, and the American contribution, which has focused on identifying specific programs that work. A combination of the two types of literature suggest that reentry programs should be based in the community in contrast to institutional settings; should be intensive (at least 6 months long); should focus on high-risk individuals (determined by classification instruments); should use cognitive-behavioral treatment techniques; and should match therapist and program to the specific learning styles and characteristics of individual offenders. The author identifies three problems with these conclusions. First, there have been few rigorous evaluations upon which to base any generalizable knowledge. Second, virtually all of the evaluations have used recidivism as the sole outcome criteria; reintegration, however, encompasses more than remaining arrest-free for a specified time period. Third, results from the academic "what works" literature often do not reflect the experience of correctional practitioners in implementing programs. 18 references