Using Desistance Theories to Understand Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions

• In Event: Poster Session II

Abstract

Correctional interventions, particularly cognitive-behavioral interventions, have been receiving a great deal of attention in the literature. This literature has demonstrated that these programs have the potential to be successful in reducing the recidivism of participating offenders (e.g. Allen et al., 2001; Lipsey et al., 2001; Lipsey et al., 2007; Tong and Farrington, 2006). However, as highlighted by Maruna and his colleagues (2004), much of the evaluation literature is atheoretical and descriptive in nature.

As such, this poster will present the results of a study that employs a desistance perspective to explain the impact of cognitive-behavioral programs on offenders’ recidivism. Specifically, the cognitive transformation desistance theories of Maruna (2001) and Giordano and colleagues (2002) will be used because factors emphasized in these theories closely align with skills addressed in cognitive-behavioral interventions. Examples of this include self-efficacy and perceptions of deviance.

Author

• Kristin Rose, Northeastern University