The evaluation found little difference in the recidivism outcomes for program graduates compared with those who did not complete the program. This finding was disappointing, given that the WATCH Program is holistic, well-resourced, supported by legislation, and has received high marks from program participants. Recidivism was measured by a return to a correctional facility for DUI within approximately 6 years. The program consists of three phases. The first phase, "Challenge to Change," is devoted to introspection, which includes self-disclosure, self-awareness, and the development of an ability to receive feedback from family members and program staff. Phase 2, "Action Phase," identifies the life situations that contributed to the current circumstance, and the development of goals for behavioral change and improvement. Phase 3, "Ownership of Change," focuses on stabilization and maintenance that involves strengthening the commitment to behavioral change. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were used in the evaluation. Funding levels for the evaluation did not permit an exhaustive review of the role of aftercare for program graduates. It might also be helpful to use multiple, rather than only one measure of recidivism. 3 tables and 4 notes
WATCh: Montana's In-Prison DUI Treatment Program
NCJ Number
249044
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 76 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2014 Pages: 34-39
Date Published
August 2014
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Findings and methodology are presented for an evaluation of Montana's WATCH Program, an in-prison treatment program for inmates with multiple (four) convictions for DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol).
Abstract
Date Published: August 1, 2014