This study was an analysis and synthesis of the existing research on prison-based rehabilitative programs and their positive or negative impact on recidivism rates. This study utilizes qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methodologies. This study is a qualitative research in nature in that the analysis of research findings is based on the…

The effectiveness of active aftercare for adolescents with alcohol use disorders in maintaining treatment gains is evaluated. Findings show that active aftercare interventions were effective in slowing the posttreatement relapse of alcohol use in adolescents. Impacts of active aftercare on number of drinking days and heavy drinking days are also…

We report the results of an evaluation study of a diversion program, operated by the Miami-Dade County Juvenile Assessment Center in Florida. The Post-Arrest Diversion (PAD) program represents an innovative approach to treatment and intervention within the juvenile justice system that utilizes standardized psychosocial risks and needs assessment…

Explores the effects of a pre-trial diversion program for misdemeanor offenders (N=243). Results indicate that successful completion of the program significantly reduced recidivism among first-time offenders. Nine percent of those completing had further contact with the courts, compared to 39 percent who failed to complete the program. (RJM)

Examines recidivism among 792 graduates of Arkansas' only boot camp. Results indicate that the primary predictors of recidivism were the type of offenses (drugs vs. others), race, and infractions while in boot camp. However, none of the predictors accounted for more than minor proportions of the variance in recidivism. (RJM)

Compares behavioral and demographic characteristics of drunk drivers with repeated arrests and drivers not having repeated arrests, after attending an alcohol education program. Previous public drunkeness and previous drunk driving arrests were strong predictors of repeat arrests and were judged useful in screening offenders for rehabilitation…

Evaluates the post-discharge recidivism rates of an eclectic sex offender treatment program. Study of 120 program completers and 100 noncompleters indicates significant differences in recidivism for the two groups. Results suggest that comprehensive treatment of sexual offenders can substantially reduce sexual as well as nonsexual offense…

Provides an overview of a comprehensive, prison-based treatment assessment, including a six-month follow-up study. Results show that 80% of the inmates referred to the program graduated. Graduates demonstrated marked reductions in criminal and drug-use activity and had lower relapse and recidivism rates when compared to other parolees. (RJM)

Background: This paper investigates the efficacy of a treatment program for sexual offenders with special needs in comparison to treatment outcomes for mainstream sexual offenders. Follow-up data is also presented for the group of offenders with special needs. Method: Participants from the two groups were matched on four variables (risk category,…

To assess the educational and employment experiences of youths after exposure to New York's Division for Youth (DFY) rehabilitation services, the incidence of criminal recidivism, and the extent to which program exposure (secure/noncommunity, or community-based) affects youths' post-program, criminal, educational, and employment experiences, 771…

This report evaluates year-long wilderness camping rehabilitation program for juvenile delinquents believed "emotionally problemed." The remote camps teach through an experience curriculum encompassing daily camping style tasks, with integration of experience via three-day home visits every six weeks followed by written reports by…

Recidivism of first-time offenders sentenced to a "boot camp" program is compared to traditional prison sentences and probation; Variables such as age, race, and type of offense are included in cross-tabulations and multivariate analysis. A survey of 83 participants studied attitudes toward the experience. Discussion of findings points…

An evaluation is presented of "Changing Lives Through Literature," a program designed as an alternative to jail. The study followed up the first 32 men to complete the program and compared them to a matched group of 40 probationers. Reconviction rate was favorable. Interview information and other influences on recidivism are considered.…

We report the impact of case management services and youth psychopathy on Juvenile Diversion program completion for youths involved in a clinical trial, and evaluation of an innovative intervention service providing 16 weeks of intensive case management services to youths and their families. The present study examines baseline interview data for…

Recent advances in the study of life stress and social support suggest a new approach to the drug abuse client recidivism problem which encompasses the need for naturalistic, interactional studies. A longitudinal study was conducted with 49 ex-clients of a heroin detoxification program to test the hypothesis that experiencing life stress in the…