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Investigation of the Effectiveness of the Relaxation Skills Violence Prevention (RSVP) Program with Juvenile Detainees

NCJ Number
241519
Journal
Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 40 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2013 Pages: 203-213
Author(s)
Jeremy D. Jewell; Scott J. Elliff
Date Published
February 2013
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This study investigated the effectiveness of the Relaxation Skills Violence Prevention (RSVP) program with a sample of juvenile detainees.
Abstract
This study investigated the effectiveness of the Relaxation Skills Violence Prevention (RSVP) program with a sample of juvenile detainees. The RSVP program is a five-session group therapy program that teaches ways to identify and cope with anger using the relaxation skills of deep breathing, guided imagery, and progressive muscle relaxation. Using a randomized controlled experimental design, the study obtained a total of 137 youth. Results supported the hypothesis that the RSVP group would experience significant declines on a measure of anger and perceived ability to control one's present and future anger when compared to the control group. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.