NCJ Number
72091
Date Published
1976
Length
194 pages
Annotation
This study assessed five male inmates of an Athens, Ga., juvenile correctional facility to determine the effects of group therapeutic recreational activities and group counseling on their social behavior.
Abstract
The five study subjects were chosen by the center's director, with their full awareness and consent. During the first 20 days of the 59-day study period, baseline data were gathered through observations of behavior. The treatment program lasted 15 days; the reversal phase, 24 days. Treatment included three recreational activities lasting a total of 45 minutes daily and 30 minutes of daily group counseling. Recreational activities were mainly passive and sedentary. The counseling used the guided Group Interaction model. Subjects' social behavior in the classroom was recorded by teachers. Behavior outside the classroom was assessed by self-reports and by youth development workers' observations. In addition, subjects were interviewed privately the day after the treatment program. Results indicated that the treatment affected each subject differently. Three subjects reduced the frequency of maladaptive classroom behaviors; two did not. For behavior outside the classroom, observer ratings differed from self-ratings. Interviews provided little additional information, but all subjects reported enjoying the treatment program. Results indicated that the treatment program had generally positive effective for most of the subjects. It is recommended that therapeutic recreation programs include a variety of activities, especially those involving strenuous physical exercise. In addition, participants should have a voice in planning such programs. Group counseling should be included. Recreation leaders should be trained in interpersonal communication skills. Further research is also recommended. Tables, figures, a bibliography listing 70 references, and appendixes presenting a program description and study instruments are included.