Implementing a Randomized Field Experiment of Peer Recovery Support in Probation: Overcoming Design and Logistical Challenges

• In Event: Advances in Experimental Criminology

Abstract

Although use in the criminal legal system of peer support specialists for people with substance use or mental health disorders has become popular in recent years, the empirical evidence base for their effectiveness is relatively sparse. This presentation describes the design and implementation of a randomized experiment to assess the impacts of peer support specialists on substance use reoccurrence, treatment adherence, and recidivism among individuals with opioid use disorders on probation. In designing and implementing this experiment, several design and implementation issues were encountered. In addition to obtaining support from probation agency leadership, defining the target population and finalizing eligibility requirements were initial issues to be addressed. Onsite participant recruitment procedures had to be developed in collaboration with probation staff in order to minimize disruption of agency operations while adhering to human subjects protections and minimizing participant risk. Researchers had to maintain flexibility as changes in agency leadership and probation operations unfolded. Addressing potential contamination across experimental conditions was another challenge that had potential implications for internal validity. Lessons learned from the implementation of this experiment have important implications for conducting experimental research in community corrections settings and maximizing the integrity of such experiments over time.

Authors

• Steven Belenko, Temple University

• Lauren Perron, Temple University

• Rosa Michnya, Temple University

• Jerry Stahler, Temple University