NCJ Number
190811
Journal
Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Dated: 2001 Pages: 75-91
Date Published
2001
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This paper describes an experimental, strengths-based program for the treatment of substance-abusing offenders under criminal justice supervision in the U.S. Probation Department.
Abstract
The program is based on new physiological evidence that links addictions to the experience of hope as well as consistent research that has identified self-efficacy, futurity, and self-esteem as crucial elements in recovery. Rooted in concepts taken from Jungian and Maslowian ideas of the self, the program uses techniques gleaned from Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP) and Ericksonian hypnosis to provide a continuing sense of self and the possibility of positive, self-actualizing futures. The program undertaken by the U.S. Probation Department for the Eastern District of New York is 16 weeks long, with each session lasting 90 minutes. Groups range in size from 5 persons and 1 facilitator to 16 participants with 2 facilitators. The groups are of mixed gender and ethnicity. All participants must have been mandated by the court or the U.S. Parole Commission to obtain drug treatment as a condition of supervision. All participants must be currently enrolled in the Probation Department's random urine-testing program and must be either abstinent or have a documented record of urinalysis and three or fewer admitted incidents of drug abuse during the preceding 3 months. Over the 2 years of its existence, the program has graduated over 100 participants. Program data and follow-up reports from the referring probation officers indicate that the retention rate is currently 70 percent. The relapse rate is under 20 percent, and the recidivism rate, defined as persons who have subsequently been revoked from supervision for any reason, is under 3 percent. This rate can be compared to the 25 percent or more of offenders who were terminated nationally from Federal supervision and revoked or sent to prison during 1998. Recommendations for additional research are offered. 41 references