NCJ Number
170442
Journal
Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Dated: (1997) Pages: 29-41
Date Published
1997
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This study compared male and female alcoholic offenders on a number of criterion variables, with a view toward identifying distinctive treatment needs according to gender.
Abstract
A total of 128 adult offenders (64 men and 64 women) under the supervision of the Massachusetts Department of Corrections between May and October 1993 were randomly selected to participate in the study. Males and females were comparable in age and race. Three psychometric instruments were used to collect the data; the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test verified the diagnosis of alcoholism and defined the research sample as alcoholics; the Alcohol Dependence Scale measured the degree of alcohol dependence; and the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised was used to determine the diagnosis of psychopathy. Findings show significant differences between the male and female participants, suggesting the need for specific treatment interventions to augment generic substance abuse interventions. Adjunct treatment issues for female alcoholic offenders should include exploration of abuse issues, evaluation of suicide risk, and the development of occupational skills. For males, adjunct treatment should focus on a cessation of violent behavior, an exploration of early sexual abuse, and the development of relationship skills. 35 references