Proximal Outcomes for Individuals Participating in Drug Court

• In Event: The Impact of Specialized Courts

Abstract

This study will examine the proximal psychosocial outcomes for individuals participating in drug court. Drug courts are a well-established community-based intervention that has shown to reduce recidivism. Less frequently discussed is the role of drug courts in serving as an impactful service connection for drug court participants. These connections may strengthen the impact of drug court and improve outcomes beyond recidivism as well. Fifty semi-structured interviews are being conducted to gain insights from drug court participants regarding their: psychosocial and treatment needs, treatment received, services and education offered, psychosocial functioning details, support system, housing and employment details, and perceptions about drug court. Qualitative interview responses will be examined using a thematic analysis. By examining proximal outcomes for drug court participants, we aim to gain useful information to responsively meet the needs of participants. Initial findings and implications will be presented.

Authors

• Danielle Gerving, University of Cincinnati

• Grace Meyer, University of Cincinnati

• Alicea Wilaini, University of Cincinnati

• Catherine Moeller, University of Cincinnati

• Luis Gutierrez, University of Cincinnati

• Sarah M. Manchak, University of Cincinnati