Integrating Strengths-Based Interventions into Correctional Treatment

• In Event: The Role of Practitioner-Driven Science

Abstract

Much of existing correctional treatment literature and staff training efforts have traditionally focused on managing offender risk and targeting criminogenic needs in order to reduce recidivism. In other words, the field has focused primarily on offender deficits. More recently, some have begun arguing for a focus on offender strengths as a means to increase offender motivation and subsequent success. Consequently, this study is an investigation into the value of strength-based approaches as a mechanism to improve offender responsivity within a halfway house for women. During the study, women were randomly assigned to treatment as usual or to treatment as usual plus a strengths-based intervention. Intermediate outcomes of interest included treatment progress, rule infractions, drug use, AWOLs, and program completion. The long-term outcome of interest was recidivism. Preliminary results from the project will be presented.

Authors

• Bradley Buckmeier, University of Cincinnati

• Kimberly Sperber, Talbert House Center for Health and Human Services Research

• Amber Manzo, University of Cincinnati